There are a few different ways you might consider winterizing your landscape this season, and many of them will feature methods of protecting your plants and soil from cold temperatures, ice and snow. One great example is the use of river rocks, which can help protect your landscape in multiple important ways.
At BioGrass Sod Farms, we offer an unmatched selection of rock and gravel products to clients around Salt Lake City, including bulk river rock and various landscaping river rocks for multiple purposes – winterizing the landscape among them. Here are some of the basics on landscaping river rocks, plus how they work to protect your landscape and some tips on utilizing them properly for these purposes.
What Are River Rocks?
For those who may be new to landscaping or have never used river rocks before, let’s start with the basics. River rocks are simply small to medium-sized stones that are harvested from rivers and streams. They come in various sizes, shapes and colors depending on their location of origin.
Smaller river rocks, also known as pea gravel, are typically between 3/8 to 1/4 inch in diameter and are often used as a decorative ground cover or for creating pathways. Larger river rocks can range from 3 inches to over a foot in diameter and are commonly used for drainage, erosion control, and landscape accents. They come in a variety of colors such as grey, brown, red, and black. Both these varieties can be useful for winterizing your landscape.
How River Rocks Improve Drainage
One of the key benefits of using river rocks in your landscape is their ability to improve drainage. During the winter, excess water from melting snow and ice can create soil erosion and cause damage to plants. River rocks act as a natural barrier and help divert water away from delicate plant roots, keeping them safe from excessive moisture.
For instance, if you have a low-lying area in your landscape that is prone to flooding during the winter, placing a layer of river rocks on top of the soil can help redirect water and keep your plants from being constantly saturated. Additionally, the porous nature of river rocks allows for better air circulation and prevents water from pooling around plant roots, which can lead to root rot and other issues.
Reducing Soil Erosion
Another major benefit of using river rocks in your winter landscape is their ability to reduce soil erosion. Excessive snow and ice buildup can cause the top layer of soil to freeze and thaw repeatedly, leading to soil erosion and loss of valuable nutrients. River rocks act as a protective layer, preventing the soil from being exposed directly to harsh winter elements.
For example, if you have a steep slope in your landscape that is prone to erosion, placing river rocks strategically along the slope can help prevent soil from washing away and damaging your plants. This not only protects your landscape during the winter but also helps maintain the overall health of your soil for future seasons.
Insulation Against Cold Temperatures
In addition to improving drainage, river rocks also provide insulation against cold temperatures. During harsh winters, snow and ice can create frozen pockets within the ground that damage plant roots. By adding a layer of landscaping river rocks around plants, you are creating an additional barrier between them and the cold ground. This helps keep the soil and roots warmer, reducing the risk of damage caused by freezing temperatures.
This temperature protection is especially beneficial for delicate plants or newly planted trees and shrubs that may not have established deep root systems yet. By using river rocks to insulate these vulnerable plants, you are helping them survive the winter and thrive in the upcoming seasons.
Tips for Using River Rocks in Winter Landscaping
When using river rocks for winterizing your landscape, there are a few key tips to keep in mind:
- Use larger river rocks to create drainage channels or barriers around plants.
- Place a layer of smaller river rocks on top of the soil as a protective barrier against erosion.
- Consider using different colors of river rocks to add visual interest and enhance the aesthetic appeal of your winter landscape.
- Be mindful of where you place the river rocks to ensure they do not impede water flow or cause drainage issues for your landscape.
- Use caution when using river rocks near delicate plants, as they can be heavy and may damage fragile stems or branches if placed too closely.
Utilizing river rocks in your winter landscaping is a great way to protect your plants and soil from harsh winter elements. Their ability to improve drainage, reduce soil erosion, and provide insulation against cold temperatures make them an essential tool for any successful winterization plan. With proper placement and consideration, these versatile stones can add both functionality and beauty to your winter landscape.
So why wait? Contact us at BioGrass Sod Farms for all your bulk river rock or other landscaping rock needs around SLC. We are happy to help you choose the right landscaping river rocks for your specific goals.