Get matched with top mulch and topsoil pros in Le Mars, IA

Small gravel is the better option since it creates a stable, even surface that’s easier on paws and hooves. Large gravel can be uncomfortable and may shift too much underfoot. So if you’re using gravel in pet or livestock areas, go for smooth, rounded small gravel to prevent injuries and discomfort.

To prepare your yard for river rocks, smaller rocks may require laying landscape fabric to keep the stones from sinking into the ground while encouraging proper water drainage. You should also clear the land of weeds and larger boulders and, in some cases, test the density of the soil to ensure it can handle the weight.

Each bag of mulch includes 2 cubic feet of mulch. And since a cubic yard is about 27 cubic feet of materials, you'll need 14 bags of mulch to have enough to cover a cubic yard. The right amount of mulch for your yard, however, depends on the depth of the mulch, the type of mulch you choose, and your desired look.

Most experts recommend a quarter-inch layer of compost for best results, and you will need about .77 cubic yards of material per 1,000 square feet. To measure how much compost to use, take the square footage of your yard and multiply it by .77, then divide that number by 1,000.