Get matched with top mulch and topsoil pros in La Monte, MO

Keeping your gravel driveway beautiful—or any gravel structure for that matter—does call for regular maintenance. You may occasionally need to add more gravel to low areas if you notice any pooling after rainfall. Gravel might also become excessively dusty over time. You can compact it with a mechanical compactor, which you can rent for around $80 to $85 per day.

To minimize maintenance requirements for your gravel, it’s important to ensure your land is properly graded before installing the gravel. It’s also helpful to lay landscaping fabric beforehand to keep it in place.

Yes, rubber mulch allows water to seep through and reach the soil underneath. Rubber mulch is not as absorbent as organic mulch, which allows the soil underneath to stay moist and hydrated. Keep in mind that the permeability of rubber mulch can get clogged by landscape fabric and other additional materials.

Replace organic mulch every one to two years, depending on the variety. Wood chips and straw, for example, will last a couple of years, while grass clippings and pine needles need replacing every several months. Inorganic mulch—such as rock and rubber chips—can stay in place for up to four years, depending on erosion and general garden upkeep. 

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.