Inexpensive and readily available, gravel is an excellent, modern garden-flooring option. It is virtually self-cleaning: When it rains, the dirt washes through the screening underneath. And maintenance is a breeze—you simply use a leaf blower and a broom, which you drag “Japanese-style” to smooth out finer gravel such pea and granite. (Do warn garden guests against wearing high heels, however!)
Gravel flooring comes in a range of different sizes, colours and prices, and the type you choose will depend on the look you’re after, says George Theodosiou, manager at Islington Nurseries in Toronto. The smaller the gravel pieces (think granite), the more contemporary your garden can look; however sharp gravel pieces (such as crushed red brick) are impossible to walk on in bare feet (don’t be afraid to test some before buying). Conversely, large smooth gravel creates “roll” when you walk, says Cathy Jones, a gardener and garden designer in Toronto. If neither of these qualities is an issue, then gravel’s for you. Assess your options below and keep in mind you may need to source a few of these wholesale with the help of a landscape architect.
**TIP:** If you plan to lay the gravel yourself, you’ll first need to put down a firm base (up to six inches of finely crushed limestone screening, for example) below the gravel. You’ll also want to edge the area: Try stone coping, aluminum edging or cement pavers; ask your local garden centre about different options. If you’re worried about the powder from limestone screening leaking into the soil and harming plants, an alternative underlay is sand, says Jones.
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