It’s also better for wildlife than laying a plastic sheet of habitat-wrecking, fossil fuel-based astro turf. It doesn’t exacerbate flooding or contribute to the urban heat island effect like paving or concrete. Gravel is often touted as a good idea for the eco-friendly gardener. Sound good? Here’s everything you need to know about creating your perfect gravel garden. Using a permeable aggregate like gravel slows erosion, reduces run-off and improves drainage and water retention - ultimately reducing flood risks. Once established you’ll find you’re spending less time on weeding and pest control and more time with a coffee (or cocktail) in hand enjoying your outside space.Ī gravel garden is preferable to paving when it comes to the environment. What’s more, the style of garden is great for anyone whose ears prick up at the sound of low maintenance garden ideas. And where astroturf heats up, gravel reflects the sun and moderates the soil temperature. Where a lawn turns yellow and parched without water, a gravel garden can flourish, providing year round interest. The advantages of a gravel garden are many. A well constructed gravel garden will have good drainage – so shouldn’t mind a bit of British rain. But you don’t necessarily need the sunny climate of LA to create a thriving gravel garden. They are ideal for sunny spots where you can create a Mediterranean style space with minimal watering required, but you can also make them work in shade.Īs drought and hosepipe bans become more common, gardeners across the UK may have to embrace the practice of xeroscaping (a style of landscaping which reduces the need for irrigation), which is common on the west coast of the USA. When covered in a patchwork carpet of alpines, sedums and drought-tolerant beauties, gravel gardens can look fabulous too. But gardeners aren’t getting into gravel just for its resiliency. A gravel garden that doesn’t require much watering is an attractive idea for many.
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