The 3 Cheapest Options for Landscaping Rocks That Still Look Great

If you're looking for a cheap, easy, and quick way to add curb appeal to your home, adding landscaping rocks could be the perfect solution. Landscaping rocks come in all shapes and sizes and in a variety of colors, but they can get pricey quickly. That's why we've compiled a list of the three cheapest options for landscaping rocks that still look great. Whether you're on a tight budget or want an easy option that doesn't require much work, these rocks are sure to fit the bill.

And if you’d rather try low-cost landscaping services that don’t require you to get your hands dirty, you can count on Heroes Lawn Care for reliable landscape design, hardscaping, and landscape maintenance services. We’ll handle the heavy lifting while you kick back and relax. Simply find a Heroes Lawn Care near you to get landscaping that rocks!

Now, on to the nitty gritty…

What Is Landscape Rock?

Landscaping rock is used in gardens and yards to fill in gaps and provide a finished look. A shed plopped down in the middle of the yard might do the job, but it will certainly look better on top of a nicely contoured walkway with crushed landscaping rock.

Landscaping rock also provides a variety of benefits, like weed control, excellent drainage, and increased curb appeal.

It can be used to build walls and paths or simply as decoration. Landscaping rock is available in multiple colors, shapes, and sizes, so it's easy to find one that will fit your needs. The three cheapest options for landscaping rocks are pea gravel, river rocks, and crushed concrete.

There are other options, including lava rock, which is more expensive, and slate, which can be brittle and break easily. But for the most part, these three options will be the cheapest and most versatile for your needs.

Why Is Landscaping Rock Good?

Landscaping rock is a great way to add curb appeal to your home without breaking the bank. It's also easy to install and doesn't require much maintenance. Unlike plants, rocks don't need watering or fertilizing and don't attract pests. Landscaping rock is also low maintenance, so you won't have to worry about it taking over your yard.

Apart from adding to your curb appeal, you can also use landscaping rock to control erosion, reduce weeds, and help with drainage issues. It can also help you create a unique landscape that will attract attention, especially if you add different textures, colors, and plants.

Pea Gravel

Pea gravel is one of the most popular landscaping rocks because it's affordable and looks great. In addition, it comes in various colors, including white, tan, brown, and black. Pea gravel is also easy to install and requires little maintenance.

White pea gravel: White pea gravel is a classic look that never goes out of style. It's perfect for creating a clean, elegant look in your yard or garden.
Tan pea gravel: Tan pea gravel is a warm, neutral color that compliments any landscaping style. It's great for adding a touch of warmth to your yard or garden.
Brown pea gravel: Brown pea gravel is a rich, earthy color that adds depth and dimension to your landscaping. It's perfect for creating a natural look in your yard or garden.
Black pea gravel: Black pea gravel is a bold, dramatic color that makes a statement in any landscaping. It's perfect for creating a modern look in your yard or garden.

Pros And Cons Of Pea Gravel

The most significant benefit of pea gravel is the price. It's the cheapest option compared to other types of landscaping rocks. It's also easy to find and doesn't require professional installation. Pea gravel is versatile and can be used in many different ways. It can be used as a ground cover, mulch, or even as an accent in your garden.

The main downside of pea gravel is that it can get stuck in your shoes and tracked into your home. It can also be difficult to remove if you need to change your landscaping design.

Average Cost Of Pea Gravel

The average cost of pea gravel is $10 to $30 per ton. Pea gravel is sold by the ton and can be delivered to your home or job site. It's a good option if you're looking for a cheap, easy-to-find landscaping rock that still looks great, but keep in mind the potential downsides before making your final decision.

Crushed Granite

Crushed granite is one of the most popular landscape rocks for both homeowners and businesses. Its popularity stems from its many benefits and affordable price point.

Crushed granite is a natural stone that has been crushed into smaller pieces. The stones are typically around 1-2 inches in size, but they can vary somewhat in shape and size. Crushed granite is a versatile material that can be used in several ways. Here are three of the most popular uses for crushed granite:

Garden Beds: One of the most popular uses for crushed granite is in garden beds. The small pieces of stone make it easy to create a well-defined bed without having to do too much work. The stone also helps to hold moisture in the soil, which is important for plant growth.
Driveways: Another popular use for crushed granite is in driveways. The stone provides a durable and attractive surface for driveways. It also helps to keep dust and dirt from being tracked into the home.
Paths: Crushed granite is also a popular material for paths. The stone is easy to walk on and provides a stable surface. It also helps prevent erosion and can be used in formal and informal settings.

Crushed granite is a good option to consider if you're looking for an affordable landscape rock that still looks great.

Pros And Cons Of Crushed Granite

The standout benefit of crushed granite is its durability. This natural stone is strong and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. It's also low maintenance and easy to care for. Another benefit of crushed granite is that it's affordable. The cost of this landscaping rock varies depending on the type of granite, but it is generally less expensive than other options like flagstone or pavers.

There are a few potential drawbacks to crushed granite, however. One is that it can take a lot of work to install yourself. The stone is heavy and requires special equipment to move and place it. It's also important to ensure the area where you'll be putting the stone is well-prepared beforehand. Another potential drawback is that crushed granite can be susceptible to staining. If the stone gets wet, it can absorb water and stain. Be sure to seal the stone before using it in your landscape to help prevent this issue.

Average Cost Of Crushed Granite

Crushed granite costs anywhere between $25 and $50 per ton. This price varies depending on the type of granite you select and the size and quantity you need. You can expect to pay around $40 per cubic yard of material for smaller projects. Larger projects may cost more, but generally not more than $50 per cubic yard.

River Rocks

River rocks are one of the most popular types of landscaping rocks because they are so versatile. They can be used for pathways, edging, mulch, and much more. In addition, they come in various sizes and colors, so you can find the perfect ones for your project. River rocks are also relatively inexpensive, making them a great option for those on a budget.

River rocks are best used on level ground because they can be heavy and difficult to move. However, if you have a sloped yard, you may want to consider another type of landscaping rock. River pebbles stand out more than other stones, so you can use them to create contrast in your landscaping. They also absorb heat well, so they can help keep your yard cooler in the summer months.

Pros And Cons Of River Rocks

River rocks have many benefits, but what stands out the most is the fact that they are very versatile. You can use them for edging, pathways, mulch, and much more. They also come in various colors and sizes, which means you can find the perfect ones for your project. In addition, these don't deteriorate or warp when wet, which means they can last a lifetime. On top of that, river rocks don't require any maintenance.

However, river rocks do have a few drawbacks. For one, they’re quite heavy, which means they can be difficult to move around. They’re also not the best option for those with a sloped yard because they can roll down the hill. Additionally, river rocks can be more expensive than the other two landscaping rocks we mentioned. Finally, you'll need to add a barrier between the rock and the soil, such as landscape fabric or cardboard, to suppress the weeds.

Average Cost Of River Rocks

Adding river rocks to your landscape can cost between $50 and $160 per cubic yard. The price will depend on the type of river rocks you choose and the size and color. The most common sizes are 3/8”, ½”, ¾”, 1”, and 2-4”. As for colors, the most popular options are white, gray, and black. However, if you want something more unique, you can find river rocks in shades of red, blue, and green.

If you’re looking for a cheap option, 3/8” river rocks are the way to go. These will cost you around $50 per cubic yard. If you want something a bit bigger, 1” river rocks are a good option. These will cost you between $70 and $80 per cubic yard. Finally, for the largest river rocks, 2-4”, you’ll be looking at a price of $100 or more per cubic yard.

How To Choose The Best Landscaping Rocks

Choosing the right rocks for your landscaping project can make a big difference in the overall look of your yard. Many types of stones are available, and the price can range widely. For this reason, picking one type among as many can be tricky. The best way to decide is to think about what you're trying to achieve with your landscaping. Do you want a natural look or something more manicured? Are you trying to add some color or create a certain texture? Once you know what effect you're going for, it will

be easier to narrow down your choices. Here are a few things to consider when choosing landscape rocks:

Price: Landscaping rocks can range in price from $30 per ton to over $100 per ton. The type of rock you choose will largely depend on your budget.
Size and shape: The size and shape of the rocks you choose will also affect the overall look of your landscaping. Larger stones will make a bolder statement, while smaller rocks can be used to create a more delicate look.
Color: The color of the rocks you choose will play a big role in the overall aesthetics of your landscaping. If you want a natural look, choose rocks that are similar in color to the existing earth and vegetation in your yard. If you're looking to add some color, there are many brightly colored rocks available.
Texture: The texture of the rocks you choose will also affect the overall look of your landscaping. Smooth stones tend to have a more polished look, while rough rocks can give your landscaping a more natural appearance.

Tips For Maintaining Your Landscape Rocks

Maintaining landscape with rocks should be easy and inexpensive if you take care of them regularly. Although most people put rocks in their gardens and yards to avoid maintaining them frequently, even rocks need a bit of care to continue looking great. Here are a few tips to keep your rocks looking great:

Use a garden hose to wash off dirt and debris from the surface of the rocks. Do this every few weeks or as needed.
Apply a sealer to the rocks to help protect them from the elements and prevent staining. Re-seal every few years or as needed.
If you live in an area with freeze/thaw cycles, make sure to apply a de-icing agent to the rocks to prevent damage when the ground expands and contracts.
Be sure to rake up any leaves or other debris that falls on the rocks, as this can cause staining. Keep an eye out for weeds growing between the stones – pull them up as soon as you see them.

Level Up Your Lawn

River rocks, pea gravel, and crushed granite are excellent types of cheap landscaping rocks. While adding rocks can be an affordable way to make your property look more luxurious, designing and laying them can be exhausting. DIYers often struggle with choosing the right type, size, and placement of rocks to achieve the desired look. If you’re ready to hand off that backyard renovation project, find a Heroes Lawn Care and landscaping expert today!

Call (402) 382-4628: CHOOSE LANDSCAPING SERVICES THAT ROCK!