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Yes, and in many cases, you should. Large gravel works best as a base layer because it improves drainage and keeps the surface stable. A top layer of smaller gravel fills in gaps and creates a smoother, more compacted surface. This combination is common in driveways and high-traffic areas where both stability and comfort matter.

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.

You don’t have to spend a small fortune to make big changes to your landscape. You can achieve a lot for well under $5,000, especially if you like a DIY challenge. With a landscaping budget of $5,000, you could tackle a project like building a simple patio or deck, sprucing up your existing landscape with new plants, mulching, and tree trimming, or adding an impressive water feature. You’ll have no shortage of possibilities if you budget wisely.

If you have a lot of trees around your home, mulching all those leaves can smother the lawn. Air and light won't reach the grass and soil if too many leaves have been mulched. Turf grass and other lawn problems can arise if the weather is too wet and excessive leaves have been mulched.