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Should I use pebbles?

KeenButNoviceKeenButNovice Posts: 5
in Problem solving
Due to lack of time (and skill) I have great trouble keeping weeds in my borders under control. I have quite a lot of pebbles left over from a pathway project. Could I cover my borders with the pebbles, laid in between and around plants, in order to slow weed growth to a manageable level? Should I also lay weed fabric under the pebbles?  Thank you.

Posts

  • LoxleyLoxley Posts: 5,698
    edited September 2021
    It wouldn't prevent weeds unless you can lay them to a great depth. Laid thinly on the surface or in a thin layer won't prevent weed seedlings and will prevent you hoeing to remove them. Using the membrane will work well initially, but eventually soil will accumulate above the membrane and weeds will start appearing and are going to be tricky to remove. If you can commit to lightly hoeing your border on a regular basis controlling the weeds will become light work.


    "What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbour". 
  • Nanny BeachNanny Beach Posts: 8,719
    Or do what I do dense planting,you can never irradiate then completely. I have shingle paths in-between in raised veg planters,weed proof membrane and I still get weeds
  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    I find ground covering plants  much better in that sort of situation. All sorts of stuff will be fine, depending on the site. 
    It depends what sort of area you're talking about - size etc, and what plants you have already. 
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
  • thorntonjanthorntonjan Posts: 3
    Deal with the weeds, it s much easier.  
    I have used pebbles and they look fantastic. Kill the weeds. Use a heavy liner to keep the weeds away and stop the pebbles sinking into the ground. Make sure the weeds dont escape to the edges. Keep on top of this.
    The draw back....all sorts of debris from soil, to leaves to bugs and seeds collect in the gaps as the smaller pebbles move to the bottom. Each and every year I have to lift the pebbles, sweep up the debris and replace the stones. In some areas the garden is naturalising and that looks great too. 
    But pebbles are not the quick long term fix. They require attention too if they are to stay looking their best, and my two tons take about two weeks in early spring to sort each year.
    Mine have a high quartz content so look truly beautiful due to the colour mix and sparkle of the quartz especially in the sun or after rain. Some people spend hours loving their lawns, i make one huge effort in the spring and that is all they need each year. 

  • KeenButNoviceKeenButNovice Posts: 5
    Thanks for all the very helpful comments.  Very much appreciated.
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