Learning The Gardening Basics

5 Steps for Creating Gravel Garden Paths

27 April 2021 by Angel Kennedy

Garden paths made of hard-packed dirt will deepen over time thanks to erosion. They can be muddy after rain or irrigation, as well, which may be a problem. If you need a simple garden path solution, look no further than gravel. It's simple to create your own paths using an easy-to-walk-on gravel option like pea gravel.

1. Dig the Paths

The key to weed-free gravel paths lies in the preparation. Begin by cutting out all of the turf and removing the old roots. Generally, digging down  8 inches or more will remove most plant material and create a good base for your new pathway. Compacting the soil in the path can further help prevent plants from taking root.

2. Line the Basin

The next step to preventing weeds is lining the path basic that you just dug. Start with a 2–3 inch layer of sand, firmly compacted. The sand creates a barrier to plant growth while still allowing water to drain out of the path area. Cover the sand with a weed blocking fabric. The fabric should overhang the sides of the bath slightly. Any gap between the edges of the path and the weed fabric can provide an incursion site for unwanted growth.

3. Put In Edging

Edging will define the edges of the path, hold the fabric in place, and keep the gravel from wandering out of the pathway. You can use any type of edging that you desire. Rubber or vinyl edging strips are cost effective and simple to put in, but you can also buildup your own edging use rocks, pavers, concrete curbing, railroad ties, or even old bottles. Pin the edge of the weed fabric down as you install the edging, and make sure the top of the edging protrudes about 2 inches above the surrounding turf.

4. Pour in the Gravel

The simplest part of the process is pouring the gravel into the prepared path bed. Fill the path up to about 1 inch from the top of the edging. Use a rake to smooth and level your path.

5. Prevent Weeds

Keeping plant debris out of the path is the simplest way to keep it weed free. Use a gravel rake or leaf blower to remove fallen debris, and pull any weeds that try to grow promptly. You can also target young weeds with a full spectrum herbicide as soon as you notice them.

If you are ready to add gravel to your paths, contact a gravel delivery service in your area.

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