A variety of cactus in desert garden

Gravel vs. Grass: Which is Better for Your Landscape?

A home’s exterior is just as important as the interior, especially post-COVID when outdoor living became a more prevalent part of people’s lives. 

There is a lot of thought that goes into landscaping, depending on how you plan to use your lawn. One of the main elements is the type of ground cover to use. The typical cover of choice is grass, but of course, that’s not all there is on the market.

Gravel is also a popular option, and for good reason. It provides a multitude of benefits for homeowners due to its cost-effectiveness and durability.

In this post, we’ll go over the benefits of grass vs. gravel, so you get a clear picture of what they both offer.

Pros and Cons of Grass for Lawn Cover

There’s something to be said about pulling up to a freshly manicured lawn with lush, green grass. Aesthetically speaking, grass is beautiful, works well with other plants for design purposes, and feels great when you want to lounge picnic-style.

However, it takes a lot of time and effort to make grass happy.  From consistent watering to fertilizing, grass needs plenty of TLC to keep up that look of grandeur. Otherwise, you’re dealing with dried, dead grass or unsightly bare spots.

Large beautiful fenced backyard with play ground and nice house.

If you’re also looking for ways to lessen your carbon footprint, grass might not be the best choice- unless you choose a native variety. Ample water consumption through sprinklers and hose watering isn’t sustainable, especially in drought-stricken regions. Chemicals from pesticides and fertilizers can also have a negative impact on local pollinators and native species.

Pros and Cons of Gravel for Lawn Cover

Gravel is becoming more popular for ground cover, especially in dry regions with little rainfall. It might not lend that lush, jungle look people love with grass, but gravel does have its own versatility that offers a unique way to landscape.

Plus, you’ll find that the pros greatly outweigh the cons. Gravel is easy to install since you basically pour it out where you want it. You can also buy bulk gravel, which cuts costs and can be delivered right to your home.

Gravel comes in numerous colors, patterns, and sizes to complement your garden. Plus, plants love gravel! It’s a great alternative to mulch, providing warmth, drainage, and moisture distribution.

Finally, gravel is more eco-friendly than grass. You won’t have to waste time or money watering your lawn. Stones also last for years, needing very little maintenance. You can set it and forget it! 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *