What are the cons of river rocks?

• <div><p>While they’re popular and have a lot of pros, the cons of river rocks include the following:</p><ul><li><p>River rocks don’t break down or provide nutrients to plants. </p></li><li><p>These stones can get hot and scorch nearby plants. </p></li><li><p>River stones may heat the surrounding soil to inhospitable temperatures. </p></li><li><p>Rocks can block rainwater from seeping into the ground if installations are too thick or tightly packed.</p></li></ul><p>Most downsides occur when using river rock as mulch in gardens and flower beds. However, you can still incorporate river rocks into your landscape as long as you use them in the correct ways.</p></div>

Get matched with top mulch and topsoil pros in Youngtown, AZ

Q: How much does 3 yards of river rock cost?

• <div><p>If you hire a professional landscaper, you could expect to pay between $90 and $660 to install three cubic yards of river rock. (That&rsquo;s based on the average river rock installation cost of $30 to $220 per cubic yard.) However, the exact price depends on the kind of river rock you choose. Crushed limestone and <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-is-rip-rap.htm">riprap</a> are some of the more affordable options, while boulders and Arizona river rock are pricier.</p></div>

Q: What are the cons of river rocks?

• <div><p>While they&rsquo;re popular and have a lot of pros, the cons of river rocks include the following:</p><ul><li><p>River rocks don&rsquo;t break down or provide nutrients to plants. </p></li><li><p>These stones can get hot and scorch nearby plants. </p></li><li><p>River stones may heat the surrounding soil to inhospitable temperatures. </p></li><li><p>Rocks can block rainwater from seeping into the ground if installations are too thick or tightly packed.</p></li></ul><p>Most downsides occur when using river rock as mulch in gardens and flower beds. However, you can still incorporate river rocks into your landscape as long as you use them in the correct ways.</p></div>

Q: What are the different types of mulch?

• <div><p>You can choose from various kinds of organic mulch and inorganic mulch. Organic mulch may be in the form of wood chips, pine needles, and compost and eventually decompose. Inorganic mulch, such as gravel, rocks, and landscape fabric, is more durable but doesn&rsquo;t help the soil.</p></div>

Q: What month should you mulch in the fall?

• <div><p>If you&rsquo;re mulching in the fall, aim to lay down the material right after the first frost, which will vary by climate. Late October and early November are good time ranges to aim for. Try to lay down your mulch after a light rainfall to lock in moisture for root growth through the winter.</p></div>

Q: Is colored mulch more expensive?

• <div><p>It depends. High-end colored mulch can be fairly costly. However, you'll have to replace less-expensive natural mulches, like pine needles and cedar mulch, more frequently. </p><p>The cost is balanced out somewhat, though, as although you'll have to replace colored mulch less often, you'll have to replenish nutrients in your soil more frequently to make up for the decrease in organic matter and nitrogen from the mulch.</p></div>

There are 7 highly-rated local mulch and topsoil pros.

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Verified Reviews for Mulch And Topsoil Service pros in Youngtown, AZ

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Last update on October 06, 2025

Reviewed in February 2012
Masterscapes came out and gave us a bid for a total back yard landscape at our new home.The job was done on time, under budget with with full permits. Troy Rock, (yeahhh that's his real name) gave us the plans to give to our association. Everything went real smooth and they completed in less...
MasterAZscapes LLC
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Reviewed in April 2021
Great. I used Design Tree Maintenance for over 10 years and for a variety of services. The crews were always competent and friendly. I felt that I was getting a high quality product every time. They were honest and helpful--always.
Design Tree Maintenance, Inc
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Reviewed in March 2021
Perfect !!!! The workman were excellent, cleaned up and did everything I asked of them and what was in the contract agreement that was written up.
Design Tree Maintenance, Inc
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Reviewed in May 2009
Representative evaluated landscape and made recommendations, and let me make the decision on work to be performed without hassle. Also educated me on soil conditions in AZ and other pros/cons on desert landscape. Workers arrived on scheduled date and worked quickly and effectively. Received a...
Design Tree Maintenance, Inc
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Reviewed in February 2019
Excellent. The arborist, Ben, has assessed my trees annually and knows his stuff. Since having him work on my trees, I have not lost any more trees and he saved one that had the beginning of a bore infestation. They all look healthy and amazing. Rene and his crew did everything I asked in a...
Design Tree Maintenance, Inc
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Reviewed in September 2017
We have used them for years at both of our properties. They have been fabulous. We are going to bring them back in for landscape lighting. It was an expensive, big project, so we wanted it done. This is not the first job with us. This is one of many over 15 years. I keep going back for their...
Design Tree Maintenance, Inc
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Reviewed in June 2012
I bought two different 'big deals'; one for deep root fertilization and one for sprinkler system evaluation/set. I ended up getting more done so it was nice to have the discount. The arborist was very knowledgeable and helpful in determining which trees to fertilize based on my budget. On...
Design Tree Maintenance, Inc
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Reviewed in October 2014
Started on time and finished in about 4 to 5 days, everything was exactly as I asked. They are starting a new project for us in a few weeks. Easy to work with.
AZ DREAMSCAPES LLC.
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Reviewed in August 2012
Really can't describe any don'ts with Dreamscapes. The design was on paper and everything was written that was to be provided. We signed the contract and Scott took over. He kept us informed daily of where their progress and what we should expect. Extremely pleasant experience. And the best...
AZ DREAMSCAPES LLC.
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Reviewed in September 2015
Az. Landscape gets a solid 5-Star rating from me. From initial meeting with Scott for a free appraisal through the completion of the project was an unbelievable pleasant experience. His wife, Sheri, who coordinates any questions from their home office gets back very quickly to answer any...
AZ DREAMSCAPES LLC.
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Find Mulch and topsoil pros in Youngtown

CWC Landscaping LLC

CWC Landscaping LLC

Customers say: Super punctual

65 local quotes requested

19 years of experience

We are a full service lawn maintenance company serving AZ west valley. We are a licensed and insured contractors offering full landscape installation, maintenance & irrigation. We treat every yard like our own!! We keep your yard immaculate so you don't have to. Ask about Angie's list discount.

"Great family owned company. Very professional and extremely knowledgeable. Thank you for taking such good care of our landscaping needs 🙏🏽"

Sarah S on August 2025

"Great family owned company. Very professional and extremely knowledgeable. Thank you for taking such good care of our landscaping needs 🙏🏽"

Sarah S on August 2025

Jose Landscaping

Jose Landscaping

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 95% of Angi customers

96 local quotes requested

Looking for top-notch landscaping services in Phoenix? Look no further! Jose Landscaping is here to transform your outdoor space. From lawn maintenance to garden design, we've got you covered. Contact us today!

"I was so happy with the service, they were able to fit me in right away and at a great price. Quick and precise work, professional and respectful of the property. I was very please!"

C. F on March 2025

"I was so happy with the service, they were able to fit me in right away and at a great price. Quick and precise work, professional and respectful of the property. I was very please!"

C. F on March 2025

J&J Lawncare LLC

J&J Lawncare LLC

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

137 local quotes requested

J&J Lawncare LLC is your go-to choice for quality and affordable lawn care and landscaping services in Phoenix. With our expertise and attention to detail, we will transform your yard into a beautiful outdoor oasis. Contact us today for all your lawn and yard work needs. Insured. We take check,cash,zelle.

"By far one of the best landscapers out there had gotten two quotes and this man went above and beyond to make sure my yard looked amazing"

Bryan W on August 2025

"By far one of the best landscapers out there had gotten two quotes and this man went above and beyond to make sure my yard looked amazing"

Bryan W on August 2025

Las Palmas Landscaping

6052 W Mulberry Dr

New on AngiNew on Angi

•Approved Pro

Las Palmas Landscaping

6052 W Mulberry Dr

New on AngiNew on Angi

•Approved Pro

2 years of experience

Free onsite estimate

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality, and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety, and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

Arizona Landscaping Services

Arizona Landscaping Services

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 93% of Angi customers

26 local quotes requested

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work. We are experts in our trade and will do our best to keep you as educated as we can on your particular task or project. We look forward to earning your business!

"Professional services, prompt responses and good quality work! Definitely recommend giving Jorge a call!"

Rako L on August 2024

"Professional services, prompt responses and good quality work! Definitely recommend giving Jorge a call!"

Rako L on August 2024

Pacheco Landscaping AZ LLC

9210 N 7th Ave Lot B1

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Pacheco Landscaping AZ LLC

9210 N 7th Ave Lot B1

5.00(

)

•Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

90 local quotes requested

5 years of experience

At Pacheco Landscaping AZ LLC, we take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service that we provide to meet the consumer's needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. In order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers, we take great care to work and communicate with every customer in a professional manner. Our reputation is based on service, safety and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

"They were great to work with, very professional and kind and had very reasonable prices for my large yard and even hauled away a big pile of debris. "

Tonya B on September 2025

"They were great to work with, very professional and kind and had very reasonable prices for my large yard and even hauled away a big pile of debris. "

Tonya B on September 2025

Felix towing

No reviews yet

Felix towing

No reviews yet

We buy cars and trucks off your hands well give you an offer depending on what your vehicle is worth.

SecGen Landscaping

No reviews yet

SecGen Landscaping

No reviews yet

Small, friendly company powered by love, care, and persistence. What makes us stand out is wanting to be a fixture in the community and educating people on giving one of the most important pieces of a home a personalized touch-your front yard. Led by owner James Harris III and 17 over years of experience.

Welcome to Green Paradise Landscaping Services LLC. We have the experience and dedication to bring your dreams to reality! Specializing in landscaping Services, we guarantee your satisfaction, and we won't leave until the job is done right.

"Basilio and his guys are great, very thankful to have found him. Great communicator, does what he says, and I appreciate working with this company very much!"

Parker H on February 2024

"Basilio and his guys are great, very thankful to have found him. Great communicator, does what he says, and I appreciate working with this company very much!"

Parker H on February 2024

...

Showing 1-10 of 76

Mulch and Topsoil questions, answered by experts

If you hire a professional landscaper, you could expect to pay between $90 and $660 to install three cubic yards of river rock. (That’s based on the average river rock installation cost of $30 to $220 per cubic yard.) However, the exact price depends on the kind of river rock you choose. Crushed limestone and riprap are some of the more affordable options, while boulders and Arizona river rock are pricier.

While they’re popular and have a lot of pros, the cons of river rocks include the following:

River rocks don’t break down or provide nutrients to plants.
These stones can get hot and scorch nearby plants.
River stones may heat the surrounding soil to inhospitable temperatures.
Rocks can block rainwater from seeping into the ground if installations are too thick or tightly packed.

Most downsides occur when using river rock as mulch in gardens and flower beds. However, you can still incorporate river rocks into your landscape as long as you use them in the correct ways.

You can choose from various kinds of organic mulch and inorganic mulch. Organic mulch may be in the form of wood chips, pine needles, and compost and eventually decompose. Inorganic mulch, such as gravel, rocks, and landscape fabric, is more durable but doesn’t help the soil.

If you’re mulching in the fall, aim to lay down the material right after the first frost, which will vary by climate. Late October and early November are good time ranges to aim for. Try to lay down your mulch after a light rainfall to lock in moisture for root growth through the winter.

It depends. High-end colored mulch can be fairly costly. However, you'll have to replace less-expensive natural mulches, like pine needles and cedar mulch, more frequently.

The cost is balanced out somewhat, though, as although you'll have to replace colored mulch less often, you'll have to replenish nutrients in your soil more frequently to make up for the decrease in organic matter and nitrogen from the mulch.

By submitting this question, I acknowledge and agree that Angi may publicly display my name, city, state, and question on the website for professionals and others to see.

The Youngtown, AZ homeowners’ guide to mulch and topsoil services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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Nov 21, 2024Nov 21, 2024
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How Much Does Sand Delivery Cost? [2025 Data]
Discover the average sand delivery cost, key price factors, and tips to save on your next project. Get transparent, up-to-date estimates for sand delivery.
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Jun 2, 2025Jun 2, 2025
Dirt Yards Calculator: How Many Yards of Dirt Do I Need?
If you’re planning a garden and asking yourself, “How many yards of dirt do I need?” this dirt calculator will help you do the math to find the right number.
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Should You Remove Old Mulch?
Whether you should remove old mulch depends on your unique situation and personal preferences. Learn more about how to handle last season’s spread.
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Pros and Cons of Rubber Mulch for Your Landscape
Looking for your next mulching material and want the full scoop on rubber mulch before you commit? Learn the pros and cons of rubber mulch here.

Get matched with top mulch and topsoil pros in Youngtown, AZ

There are 7 highly-rated local mulch and topsoil pros.

Need a pro for your mulch and topsoil service project in Youngtown, AZ?

Landscape Yard or Garden Installation

Gravel or Loose Fill Paving Install, Spread or Scrape

Landscape Soil, Sand, Mulch and Rock Delivery

Verified Reviews for Mulch And Topsoil Service pros in Youngtown, AZ

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CWC Landscaping LLC

CWC Landscaping LLC

Jose Landscaping

Jose Landscaping

J&J Lawncare LLC

J&J Lawncare LLC

Las Palmas Landscaping

Las Palmas Landscaping

Arizona Landscaping Services

Arizona Landscaping Services

Pacheco Landscaping AZ LLC

Pacheco Landscaping AZ LLC

Felix towing

Felix towing

SecGen Landscaping

SecGen Landscaping

Allen's Family landscape

Allen's Family landscape

Green Paradise Landscaping Services LLC

Green Paradise Landscaping Services LLC

The Youngtown, AZ homeowners’ guide to mulch and topsoil services

How Much Does Soil Testing Cost? [2025 Data]

How Much Does Fill Dirt Cost? [2025 Data]

How Much Does Sand Delivery Cost? [2025 Data]

Dirt Yards Calculator: How Many Yards of Dirt Do I Need?

Should You Remove Old Mulch?

Pros and Cons of Rubber Mulch for Your Landscape

Get our Angi-powered app

Get matched with top mulch and topsoil pros in Youngtown, AZ

There are 7 highly-rated local mulch and topsoil pros.

Need a pro for your mulch and topsoil service project in Youngtown, AZ?

Landscape Yard or Garden Installation

Gravel or Loose Fill Paving Install, Spread or Scrape

Landscape Soil, Sand, Mulch and Rock Delivery

Verified Reviews for Mulch And Topsoil Service pros in Youngtown, AZ

Find Mulch and topsoil pros in Youngtown

CWC Landscaping LLC

CWC Landscaping LLC

Jose Landscaping

Jose Landscaping

J&J Lawncare LLC

J&J Lawncare LLC

Las Palmas Landscaping

Las Palmas Landscaping

Arizona Landscaping Services

Arizona Landscaping Services

Pacheco Landscaping AZ LLC

Pacheco Landscaping AZ LLC

Felix towing

Felix towing

SecGen Landscaping

SecGen Landscaping

Allen's Family landscape

Allen's Family landscape

Green Paradise Landscaping Services LLC

Green Paradise Landscaping Services LLC

The Youngtown, AZ homeowners’ guide to mulch and topsoil services

How Much Does Soil Testing Cost? [2025 Data]

How Much Does Fill Dirt Cost? [2025 Data]

How Much Does Sand Delivery Cost? [2025 Data]

Dirt Yards Calculator: How Many Yards of Dirt Do I Need?

Should You Remove Old Mulch?

Pros and Cons of Rubber Mulch for Your Landscape

Find Mulch and topsoil service Pros in other cities near youNot finding what you are looking for in Youngtown? Check surrounding areas for Mulch and topsoil pros.

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