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You should add 1 to 4 inches of mulch, depending on your garden type and needs. Keep in mind that no amount of mulch can completely prevent weeds, but a heavier coverage (closer to 4 inches) can suppress weeds enough that you are only seeing them sprout every few weeks. Finer mulch prevents weeds more effectively than large mulch, so if you’re using mulched leaves or shredded bark, 1 to 2 inches will likely suffice, while 3 to 4 inches is best for larger mulch, like bark chips or straw.

A yard of crushed concrete costs between $20 and $50. A single-car driveway will need 1.5 to 2.5 yards of crushed concrete, putting your material costs between $30 and $125, which is much less than you’ll pay for most driveway paving methods. Your total could vary based on the thickness you’re going for, and, of course, total prices will increase with added square footage for driveways that fit multiple cars.

Pea gravel can retain some heat, but it generally stays cooler than materials like concrete, asphalt, or stone pavers. Lighter-colored pea gravel reflects more sunlight and tends to stay cooler, while darker-colored gravel can absorb heat and become warmer to the touch.

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.