As eco-friendly landscaping becomes the norm, many savvy homeowners are seeking rock garden ideas. A rock garden is loosely defined as a space where natural stone and other hardscape elements serve as the primary focus of a garden design.
They’re a favorite in dry climates for conserving water while still showing off your outdoor space in a creative and aesthetically pleasing way.
However, you can build your own rock garden, regardless of where you live. Whether you want ideas for a large space or a small addition to an existing landscape, here is a simple guide to making your rock garden ideas come to life:
When choosing rocks for your rock garden, it’s a good idea to go with stones native to your region. This can help drastically with keeping your costs down, as it won’t need to be shipped from far away. However, if you have your heart set on a particular type of rock, there’s no reason beyond cost not to make it happen - just be prepared for a longer wait and a larger price tag.
If you want to achieve a weathered aesthetic, choose softer, porous rock varieties. These rocks are more receptive to changes from moss, lichen and environmental factors compared to harder varieties.
Rock garden experts also suggest selecting rocks that are complementary to each other in terms of color, texture and form. While it’s great to have a natural mixture of sizes and shapes, rocks that contrast too much might make a garden seem cluttered.
While the rocks are the key element of a rock garden, plants still play an important role in the design. One way to choose plants for rock gardens is to mimic the plants naturally occurring in the landscape you’re trying to mimic. For example, alpine plants for a high-mountain garden, and cacti for a desert theme.
Some other suggestions for plants to add to your rock garden include:
Rock garden design doesn’t have to be complicated. If you’re in need of inspiration, consider these rock garden ideas to help you get started on your design journey.
I have been selling Real Estate in the Greater Boston Area since 1997. I am the Co-Founder & Current Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Watertown. A lifelong resident of Watertown which I still reside with my Wife Debra and my Twins Emily & Christopher. I am a supporter of many local & national charities. One of my most rewarding fundraisers was as a rider in the PanMass Challenge in 2010,2011,2015 & 2016 raising over $50,000 over those 4 years for the Dana Farber Jimmy Fund. I am a 1988 Graduate of Bentley University in Waltham. I have extensive knowledge of all types of Real Estate participating in over 1000 transactions. I also have New Construction experience & specialize in condo conversions.
Purchasing a home is one of the single most important investments in a person's life. With my expertise and guidance in the home buying and selling process, I can help find the most appropriate home for you. You can be assured that an experienced Real Estate Professional is working with your interests in mind. Please contact me on my cell at 617-799-8948 or email [email protected] for a free consult if you are thinking of Buying or Selling your home.
