Landscaping with Decorative Rock: Tips That Work in Calgary’s Climate

Decorative rock is a practical, long-lasting choice for Calgary yards. It doesn’t fade, wash away, or rot. With the right prep, it stands up to wind, snow, and summer heat—no maintenance required.

Here’s how to use the types of decorative rock you carry to get clean, functional, and lasting results in Calgary’s climate.

Your Decorative Rock Options

Rundle Gravel

• Dark grey, angular, and sharp-edged
• Packs tightly but still drains well
• Blends well with modern or minimalist designs
• Great for garden beds, pathways, and around fire pits

Road Crush Gravel

• A compactable blend of gravel and fines
• Best used as a base layer under pavers or decorative rock
• Not decorative on its own but essential for stability

Rainbow Gravel

• Multicolour, smooth, rounded stones
• Visually striking for dry creek beds, tree wells, and borders
• Heavy and stays in place during wind or runoff
• Reflects light and adds colour contrast in garden beds

Pea Gravel

• Small, smooth, round stones
• Comfortable to walk on
• Ideal for pathways, play areas, and dog runs
• Doesn’t compact much—use edging to keep it in place

Drain Rock Gravel

• Medium to large, angular stone (often 20mm+)
• Designed for drainage applications: French drains, foundation backfill, and retaining walls
• Allows water to move through freely
• Not decorative but essential in high-water or slope areas

Tips for Using Decorative Rock in Calgary

1. Start With Landscape Fabric

Calgary’s chinooks and wind can shift rock, especially in winter. A good landscape fabric:

• Stops weeds
• Prevents rock from sinking into the soil
• Helps everything stay in place longer

2. Use Road Crush as a Base

Under pathways or patios, layer 3–4 inches of road crush and compact it well. Then top it with:

• Rundle gravel for a clean finish
• Pea gravel for softer footing
• Rainbow gravel for visual impact

3. Install Edging

Steel, concrete, or plastic edging keeps your rock from spreading over time. It also gives a cleaner look around garden beds and walkways.

4. Apply at the Right Depth

• 2–3 inches is typical for decorative use. Use our material calculator to know how much landscaping material you will need.
• Go deeper if you expect foot traffic or wind
• Avoid going too shallow—it won’t cover fabric or block weeds

Where to Use Each Type

Installation Tips for Calgary Conditions

1. Use Landscape Fabric

Helps prevent weeds and keeps the rock from mixing with the soil.

2. Compact the Base First

For walkways or patios, use road crush underneath your top layer.

3. Edge Everything

Wind and snowmelt will push rock outward. Edging stops the spread and makes maintenance easier.

4. Match the Depth to the Use

• 2–3 inches for decorative coverage
• 4–6 inches for drainage or base fill

Final Tip

Decorative rock looks clean and lasts for years. It’s a smart pick for Calgary's weather—just choose the right type for your use and lay it properly.

We deliver all decorative rock in ½ yard and 1-yard bags, with free delivery in Calgary