We are here to help
Rock is an excellent decision for a customer who is looking for a no-hassle ground cover. Rock reduces weeds, helps conserve water, and adds a clean look to any landscaping project. Rock is perfect for any empty space: a large landscape area or small flowerbed. We sell many types of rock that vary in size, color, texture, and purpose. Allow one of our knowledgeable Everglades employees to assist you in selecting the perfect type of rock for your project and budget.
For proper installation, it is recommended for rock to be added until a uniform layer is created of at least three inches in depth. Generally, rock products help keep soils moist for a longer period after watering by acting as a barrier to sunlight, preventing evaporation as well as regulates the soil’s temperature even protect roots from frost damage. Rock acts as a barrier from rainfall which can cause soil erosion via runoff. Correct application of rock also starves weeds of sunlight significantly hindering weeds ability to grow. Rock naturally biodegrades leading to a need to replenish rock about once a year.
Incorrect rock application, layer thickness over 5 inches, can cause landscapes to deteriorate quickly. A think layer of rock will cause a low oxygen environment at the root level causing roots to decline and die.
If the soil does not have sufficient drainage to drain excess moister while the rock is preventing evaporation the moisture will displace oxygen. Saturated soil is also an ideal environment for fungus and many root-rot pathogens.
Rock should not be applied in piles at the base of shrubs or trees. Stems need to be able to freely exchange carbon dioxide and oxygen with the atmosphere. This is exacerbated if the rock is maintained saturated, causing the Inner bark of a tree or stem to wither and die. Additionally, the decomposing rock creates heat that can reach temperatures up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, in effect cooking the stem causing issues with it’s hardening process.
It is important to make sure the rock is fungus free because a many plant diseases are transmitted via fresh rock. Excessive rock can lead to both Nutrient toxicity and deficiencies. Fortunately, most of these issues can be reversed by simply removing rock. Rock should never be touching the side of a home with wood siding because termites often use this as a vehicle to invade a home. If a landscape fabric is being used it is best paired with inorganic rock such as rocks.