Rocks not only provide year-round appeal to the garden, but those with mosses and lichens growing on them--and plants tucked into the crevices--add an especially nice textural element. Host John Cretti shares some easy tips for incorporating rocks into the garden and lists a variety of plants that will grow directly on the surface of rocks, as well as in their cavities.
Materials:
- landscape fabric
- fabric pins
- small and medium rocks (with cracks, crevices or holes)
- pea gravel
- cedar-bark mulch
- artificial rock, lace rock or lava rock
- scissors
Featured Plants
- ice plants
- sedum (sold in plugs)
- crassula
- hen-and-chicks
Background Information and Tips:
To add both color and texture to the garden or landscape, look for rocks with interesting features such as lichens or mosses. Rocks that are native to a certain area will yield a natural look when used in a garden or landscape. Other tips:
- Lace rock, also known as lava rock, makes a great addition to almost any planted area and is lightweight and easy to move.
- When arranging groups of rocks, try to mimic patterns that occur in nature.
- To add height to a smaller rock, bury it vertically, with the lower portion embedded in the soil.
- Use rocks to enclose tender plants and create a microclimate that will help protect them from wind and other harsh conditions. Shade-loving plants and those that are marginally hardy will get an extra dose of protection. Position a heat-loving plant to the south of a rock, and the radiant heat will afford the plant the conditions it likes best.
- Use large, flat rocks to create sitting areas in open spaces.
Planting on or around rocks:
- Try planting plugs of sedum, ice plants, or crassula (a succulent) in the crevices of rocks. Simply clean out the opening if necessary, then press the plug into the space and water thoroughly.
Preventing weeds around plants:
- Purchase a type of landscape fabric that is spun tight enough to prevent weeds but yet allow water and air to penetrate the soil.
- Cut a piece of the fabric to fit the designated area, then anchor it in place under the rock(s). Secure the sides with landscape pins pushed through the fabric into the soil.
- Cut slits in the fabric to accommodate plants, and follow normal planting procedures. To "dress up" the surrounding area, place cedar mulch or pea gravel on top of the fabric, then water the plant thoroughly.
)
)
