River rock and stone beds

Washed round stone used where planting or mulch will not survive.

Where it works

Driveway edges that get salted, drip lines under eaves, side yards with no light, and drainage swales that need armouring.

What to know

Stone does not suppress weeds on its own — it needs a clean base and edging, or seed will colonise the gaps within two seasons.

Maintenance

Leaves settle into it and need blowing out each fall. It does not break down, so it is a one-time cost.

Whatever the material, the base under it and the water around it decide how it looks in ten years.