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A good gravel driveway should be built in layers using different sizes of gravel. A solid base layer of larger crushed stone (around 1 to 6 inches in diameter) provides stability and helps with drainage. Some recommend a middle layer of medium-sized gravel (2 to 3 inches). For the top driving surface, smaller gravel is best. A common recommendation is to use gravel between 1/4 inch and 1 inch in diameter, as it compacts well to create an even surface that's easy to drive on. Avoid stones that are too large, flat, or round to ensure the best traction. Using different layers ensures the driveway is durable, drains properly, and doesn't shift over time.

The best size rock for your landscaping depends on the design, as different boulders serve different purposes. If you want to group boulders to create a natural-looking cluster, you’ll need a range of sizes. Otherwise, here are some suggestions:

• Small boulders (smaller than 12 inches across): Best for landscape edging and fire pits 

• Medium boulders (12–24 inches): Best for retaining walls and water features

• Large boulders (more than 24 inches): Best as standalone landscaping features, steps, or walkways.

Of course, you can mix and match sizes to create a unique display.

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 amount of soil you’ll need around your foundation depends on a variety of factors, but in general, you want a 6-inch decline over the first 10 feet extending out from your foundation. How much soil it will take to achieve that will depend on the current grade of the yard, how much foundation is exposed, and the size of your home.