Landscape Rock

Landscape rock refers to decorative stone materials used in outdoor design, from river pebbles to large boulders, and it's a fantastic way to add texture, define garden beds, or reduce water usage in your yard. Whether you're creating a zen garden or building a retaining wall, the options are endless. Angi helps you find local pros and project inspiration to bring your vision to life.

Related to Landscape Rock Service

Landscape Rock Service Articles and Advice
What size river rock is best for landscaping? Learn all about choosing landscaping rocks for gardens, water features, walkways, and more.
Whether you create a Zen rock garden, group boulders on your lawn, or line paths with pebbles, rockeries are beautiful and low maintenance. Read on to learn more.
The answer to "how much limestone do I need?" really depends on how you'll be using it. Use this limestone calculator for landscaping projects.
This rip rap calculator will help you estimate how much large rock you’ll need to ensure your shoreline or embankment doesn’t get wiped away by wayward waves.
Find out the best types of landscaping rocks for your home’s next outdoor project, from solving drainage problems to installing retaining walls and terraces.
Enhance your front yard with a low-maintenance home address rock sign that makes your location easy to find. Read on for plenty of ideas to decorate your landscape.
When it comes to landscaping stones, there are plenty of options. Picking the right hardscaping option for your home’s exterior comes down to the purpose and your desired look. This guide explains what you need to know to choose
Consider one of these rock garden ideas if you’re seeking a landscaping feature that requires little maintenance but still looks stunning.
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Common Landscape Rock Service Questions

Before you begin landscaping with rocks, put down a weed barrier or landscape fabric to prevent pesky weeds from poking through. 

Depending on the size of the river rock and the density of your soil, add woven landscape fabric or sand under river rock. The extra layer will ensure your river rock sits evenly and doesn't create puddles or uneven areas throughout the design. In some cases, nothing is necessary beneath river rock, but be sure to speak with a landscaper to keep your landscaping looking sharp.

If you hire a professional landscaper, you could expect to pay between $90 and $660 to install three cubic yards of river rock. (That’s based on the average river rock installation cost of $30 to $220 per cubic yard.) However, the exact price depends on the kind of river rock you choose. Crushed limestone and riprap are some of the more affordable options, while boulders and Arizona river rock are pricier.

Rocks are less likely to attract snakes and other critters because their prey (termites, ticks, and other insects) don’t usually inhabit this environment. However, if you have placed together rocks with large spaces in between or near a source of water, you may find a snake or an occasional chipmunk seeking shelter.

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.