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The best type of rock for landscaping depends on your specific project and needs, as different rocks are suited for different applications. For covering large areas or creating an affordable driveway, consider gravel, but note that it can wash away in flowing water. For water features, river rocks are a good option. Flagstone and cobblestone are ideal for aesthetically pleasing patios and walkways. If you are building a stone wall, fieldstone or small boulders are up to the task. Large boulders and landscape rocks work well as statement pieces, to fill empty space, or to indicate boundaries, but be mindful that they can overwhelm smaller gardens. The best approach is to first define your landscaping project and then select the rock type that best fits that purpose.

Yes, you can landscape in the rain, but you should take some precautions to keep yourself and your tools safe. Avoid using electric landscaping tools during rainfall, and don’t mow, thatch, aerate, or rake in the rain, as your tools can more easily tear out roots in the loose soil. Be careful when working on wet grass, and take your time to avoid slipping. Avoid putting in new plants before a particularly bad storm, as heavy rain and strong winds can damage or uproot plants that aren’t yet established.

A full backyard renovation can cost between $15,000 and $50,000, depending on the scope of the project. Excavation, materials, and labor costs all contribute to the final cost of updating your outdoor spaces, and expensive features like a pool, a fence, or hardscaping carry a high price tag.

You should use mulch because it protects garden soil in a few key ways. This extra layer between the ground and the elements protects against erosion, helps your soil maintain moisture, regulates changes in temperature, adds nutrients as it decomposes, and keeps weeds at bay.