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:
Rock garden materials for a natural aesthetic
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.
Choosing the right plants
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:
- Coastal ornamental grasses like beach grass and fountain grass add texture and volume to beach rock gardens.
- For a warm and humid climate, try lush ferns, colorful begonias and other tropical varieties suited to your area.
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.
About the Author
Debbie Caldwell
When you first meet Debbie Harris-Caldwell, you are immediately drawn to her charming Welsh accent and the twinkle in her eye. The well-traveled transplant from Wales is quick to set you at ease and time spent with her promises to be time well spent.
Debbie has been a real estate agent for 40 years and takes great pride in her customer service skills. "I make myself available to my customers when they need me, whether it's on a Sunday Evening or after their long day at work. I make my schedule fit theirs. I also keep my customers updated on everything happening with their listings or purchase, I am their conduit for information." She has built a business following her key principles of clear communication, attention to detail, client advocacy, and comprehensive knowledge of the area. Debbie comes to every new transaction with positive energy, determination, a strong understanding of the currents driving the market, and the expertise that comes from a lifetime of experience. She knows the importance of marketing and whether a home is for sale for $200,000 or for $2 million, she always has professional photography done and creates a listing presentation that best shows off her customer's home.