Beautiful and long-lasting stones add a natural look, and they are the favorite hardscape materials used by HGTV's
Gardening by the Yard host Paul James in his landscape. Not everyone has easy access to stones, and savvy manufacturers have developed a variety of faux stones to create paths, arches, retaining walls, patios, ponds, waterfalls and other focal points for beautiful landscaping. James explores some of the many types and uses of fake stone.
Some faux stones are made of cement and are stained to look real. Over time they will weather and support the growth of algae or moss and look more realistic. These stones can be laid directly on the ground or on a bed of sand to create a path or patio. They can be placed on their sides to create border flanking for a garden bed. Typically, they weigh less than real stone and cost approximately $5 to $7 each. Circles or squares of plain cement are great for dropping in a spot where you might otherwise be walking in mud.
For a more formal look, faux stones are available in all types of sizes and shapes and dyed in different colors. They can be used as stepping stones or patio pavers. You can also get circles or squares of aggregate stones, which are small chunks of river rock embedded in concrete.
If you prefer the look of brick over stone, consider cement squares, which are stained and scored to resemble mortared bricks. They are available in all kinds of different colors and patterns. Faux bricks--including those with a weathered look or gray-stained--are available as ready-made tree rings in different diameters for those of you who like the look of tree rings. Buy enough sections to complete a tree ring, and lay the sections in a trench around the tree. You can also combine curved and straight sections to edge a flower bed; they prevent grass from growing in flower beds and protect your plants, especially young trees.
Faux wood circles are also available, which are supposed to resemble sections of cut tree trunks. They can be placed on the ground to create a meandering path with a woodsy feel.
Faux stone-edging material has a realistic look, even up close. Straight and curved sections are available. You can also buy hard right angles to create borders of different shapes and sizes. Some designs include a little mow strip, which sticks out a couple of inches from the base; it allows mowing up to the edge and eliminates the need for a string trimmer.
Although these faux products are fun and easy to use, they are heavy. If you plan to use them on your next project, remember to lift properly; use a wheelbarrow or garden cart to haul them, and don't over exert yourself.
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