What is Pea Gravel and the Best Ways to Use it

Pea gravel seems to be all the rage these days. You’ll see landscaping layouts with crisp, white stone pathways and sitting areas in backyards that lend to a clean aesthetic that is accomplished with very little effort. 

So what is pea gravel? And how can you use it exactly?

What is Pea Gravel

Pea gravel is a type of gravel that consists of small “pea” shaped pebbles around ⅛” to ⅜” in diameter. This is a type of river rock, typically found in river beds around the world. These pebbles have been shaped naturally, thanks to the ebb and flow of river currents. This is what’s responsible for their smooth, rounded texture.

What is Pea Gravel Used For?

Landscapers often turn to pea gravel because it’s easy to install, it comes in numerous color patterns, and it’s low maintenance. Pea gravel is generally used for surface projects, as it’s too small for structural landscaping. It’s perfect to use in flowerbeds for drainage, or even for drain pipe bedding. 

Aesthetically, it can be used to cover up exposed tree roots and to create distinct sections for your garden with clean borders. 

Here are other ways to use pea gravel:

  • Driveways and pebble garden pathways
  • Garden ponds
  • To line patios, decks, or swimming pools
  • Container plants
  • Cover bare spots in the yard
  • To create a sitting area in the garden with a table and chairs
  • For weed control 

Note that once it’s added to an area, pea gravel is difficult to remove completely if you decide to change up your landscape. Also keep in mind that the small stones retain heat, so only use them with plants that are heat tolerant.

Where Can I Get Pea Gravel?

Pea gravel is relatively inexpensive and easy to find at your local garden products store or if you have a big project in mind, you can buy bags in bulk from a garden products supplier. 

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