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Buying topsoil in bulk or a bag depends on how much area you’re trying to cover. Even if it goes on sale, bagged topsoil isn’t as cheap as buying it in bulk, but transporting bulk topsoil can become cumbersome if you don’t have the proper truck. If you can find an easy delivery option and have the space to store a large amount of topsoil, buying in bulk will give you more bang for your buck.

A light layer of mulch can help protect a tree, retain moisture, and keep the soil healthy. However, it’s important to avoid over-mulching or piling the mulch up around the trunk of a tree, a practice notoriously called “volcano mulching.” That piled mulch can increase the chances of rot and disease on the tree trunk as well as overwhelming the soil, which needs access to a certain amount of air. Topped trees have it hard enough: mulch sparingly while they heal.

The least costly way to keep grass from growing is also the most labor-intensive: regular weeding. Pull out grass blades as you see them pop up through the soil in areas where they’re unwanted. Another cost-effective way to keep grass from growing is by spreading a thick layer of mulch on the area as this will suffocate the grass.

Gravel driveways require regular maintenance because the material can shift over time. Routine tasks include raking the gravel to ensure an even layer, filling in ruts or low spots, and removing debris, especially after storms. You should also add fresh gravel as needed to prevent potholes, remove weeds by hand or with an herbicide, and occasionally spray the driveway with water to reduce dust.

Periodically, you may need to grade and level the entire driveway, which is often done every few years. Any refilled potholes should be compacted; for excessive dust, you can use a mechanical compactor. To minimize future maintenance, ensure the land is properly graded before installation and consider laying down landscaping fabric to help keep the gravel in place. In areas with heavy rain, reinforcing the edges can help prevent erosion. Additionally, it's best to avoid using a snowplow on a gravel driveway during the winter.