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No, gravel and crushed rock are different. Crushed rock is made in a quarry and has sharp, jagged edges. It’s most commonly used for building and construction.

Gravel naturally occurs in river beds or lakes and features smooth edges, making it a better choice for landscaping or other decorative areas. Like crushed stone, gravel can also be found in quarries, but it’s typically due to rock-on-rock erosion rather than machinery.

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.

Mulching any time of year can attract termites, so there’s no added risk in the fall. The important thing to remember is that termites are attracted to rotting wood, so you need to lay a thin enough layer that won’t trap too much moisture and lead to rotting. A layer between 1 and 4 inches thick should provide all the benefits you’re looking for without attracting termites.

To reduce landscaping costs, you can implement several strategies at every stage. Consider doing the work yourself (DIY) to save on professional labor fees. You can also repurpose existing features and materials from other home projects. When purchasing new items, choose more inexpensive materials and opt for softscaping over hardscaping where possible. Another effective method is to buy young plants or plant from seed, which is more cost-effective than purchasing mature plants.