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When it comes to which stone is better, crushed or natural gravel, it all depends on the project. Crushed stone is a great base and filler material for projects like retention walls, concrete slabs, driveways, pipes, and drains. Gravel is a common choice for visually attractive landscaping projects like walkways, above-ground drainage systems, patios, and garden borders.

Wood from black walnut, magnolia, eucalyptus, red maple, and invasive species like tree of heaven are not recommended for mulching. These trees release allelochemicals that can suppress plant growth. Some homeowners, however, use wood from these trees for mulching if it is less potent due to age or concentration, or if the plants are not as sensitive to them.

Because gravel moves, it requires different maintenance than asphalt or concrete. Here are a few maintenance tips for your gravel driveway. Every few years (or as often as needed):

• Grade and level your driveway

• Rake to fill holes and ruts

• Compact any refilled potholes

• Remove weeds with herbicide or by hand

• Spray it with water to reduce the amount of dust kicked up

• Avoid using a snowplow during winter months

How tall your mulch should be around your tree depends on the type of mulch you use, but aim for 3 to 4 inches as a rule of thumb. You’ll want to avoid simply piling it up in hopes of offering additional benefits to your tree. Volcano mulching is the infamous term for piling way too much mulch against the stem of your tree. This could actually kill your tree or severely harm it, as your tree trunk needs space to breathe without too much moisture.