Design by Function: Rock Garden

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Think of the rocks in this design as a design accent. They add lots of character to this slopping garden.

View and print a larger version of this design.

You’d like your yard if it weren’t for that annoying gradual slope alongside the house. The uneven ground has made the area difficult to maintain, mow and enjoy. The only “good news” about this unattractive part of your property is that given its location, it’s not that noticeable when you walk out the back door.

But what about when you’re out in the yard, then turn around to walk back in?

It’s easy – if not convenient – to just ignore aggravating spots in the yard that you can’t immediately see when you first walk outside. But sooner or later, you’ve got to turn around, and when you do, those ugly trouble spots will be staring right back at you.

So rather than just give up on your hard-to-mow slope and pretend it’s not there, transform it into a gorgeous, natural-looking garden! Partly tucked quietly around the corner of the house, this secret rocky hideaway will gloriously reveal itself as you’re out enjoying your yard and turn to face your home.

This attractive “rock garden” plan uses curved lines to attract the eye and native rocks to naturally accessorize the space and offer a little variety. (Think of them as natural sculptures in your garden.) A native rock wall and some added topsoil help even the original slope at ground level, and an added berm offers extra height and interest.

A planting of mounding annuals brings an explosion of color that can be changed year-round, giving a new look to your garden season after season. Flowering shrubs and upright perennials complete the look, also bringing color and interest, as well as fragrance (if you so choose) and texture.

Just select your favorite plants that fit the appropriate function according to the design and make sure they match your site conditions (sun-loving plants for your sunny location, etc.). Then say goodbye to your ugly sloped area – and say hello to a new garden that’s rock-steady gorgeous!

Remember, when you shop for plants, pick the ones you like that match the functions identified on the plan!

Warnings

Before you dig, be aware of any underground utilities, including electricity, gas, cable service, telephone, sprinklers and possibly septic field laterals.

Facts

Berms help create height, interest and added privacy in the landscape.

Tips

When using mulch, consider the material best-suited to your terrain. Bark mulches tend to wash out on sloped areas and berms, so rock mulch is a better choice for such sites.

Faqs

Q: Where do I find native rocks for my garden?
A: Native rocks and boulders can be found and collected throughout much of the country. They can also be purchased from landscape vendors (where you might buy soil, gravel and mulch). Most even deliver. Check the Yellow Pages for some good sources.

Come to The Garden Party and share your Design by Function accomplishments with the rest of our Learn2Grow community! Post some pictures of your new rock garden, create a blog about your growing adventures, or ask our experts and other home gardeners for more tips, ideas and help.

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