Easy & Beautiful Paths
Hello, & Welcome, Gardening Friends,
Celia Bedilia is a blog for gardening enthusiasts of all levels. As a neurodivergent gardener, I've found the garden to be a therapeutic haven, a place to process life's challenges. I invite you to join me on this journey of creating a safe and peaceful space in your garden and here on Substack. In these trying times, we all need connection. Subscribe, and let's build something beautiful together.
Grab your Wellies and meet me in the garden.
XO, Celia
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Building a crushed stone path is a great way to enhance your landscape while providing a functional walking area. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create one:
Materials List:
- Crushed stone (size varies, typically 3/4 inch)
- Landscape fabric (optional)
- Edging materials (wood, metal, or stone)
- Shovel
- Rake
- Level
- Garden hose or string (for layout)
- Compactor or tamper (optional)
Steps to Build a Crushed Stone Path:
1. Plan Your Path:
- Decide on the location and shape of your path. Use a garden hose or string to outline the desired shape.
2. Mark the Area:
- Once satisfied with the layout, mark the edges with stakes or spray paint.
3. Excavate the Path:
- Use a shovel to dig out the marked area. Aim for a depth of about 3-4 inches, depending on the thickness of the crushed stone you plan to use. Remove any grass, roots, or debris.
4. Level the Base:
- Ensure the bottom of the excavated area is level. You can use a rake and a level to achieve a smooth surface.
5. Install Edging (Optional):
- If you want defined edges, install your chosen edging material along the sides of the path to keep the crushed stone contained.
6. Lay Landscape Fabric (Optional):
- To minimize weed growth, lay landscape fabric over the excavated area. Cut it to fit the path's shape and secure it with landscape pins.
7. Add Crushed Stone:
- Pour crushed stone into the excavated area. Start with a layer about 2-3 inches deep. Use a rake to spread it evenly.
8. Compact the Stone:
- Use a compactor or tamper to compact the stone. This step is crucial as it helps to create a stable and firm surface. If you don’t have a compactor, you can walk on the stones to pack them down.
9. Add More Stone (if needed):
- After compacting, add more crushed stone to achieve your desired depth, usually around 3-4 inches total, and level it again.
10. Final Touches:
- Rake the surface to ensure it’s even, and remove any excess stones from the edges.
11. Water the Path (Optional):
- Lightly mist the path with water to help settle the stones further.
Maintenance Tips:
- Regularly check for weeds and remove any that appear.
- Refill with crushed stone to maintain the path's appearance and function.
By following these steps, you'll create a beautiful and durable crushed stone path that enhances your outdoor space!
Do you have any plans to put in a garden path? I have learned so much from BBC Gardeners World and Monty Don. Monty says to start with the paths when building your garden, I wish I had known that years ago 😂.
Here are some more tips & links about building a garden path.
BBC Gardeners World: Garden Path
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