How to Prevent Grass From Growing in Gravel

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Does your landscape feature gravel? Whether it’s used on a sidewalk, flowerbed or elsewhere, you may discover grass growing from underneath the small rocks.

When this occurs, it can create a messy-looking landscape while simultaneously jeopardizing the health of your trees and “good” plants.

With a little work, however, you can prevent grass from growing in gravel.

Use at Least 3 Inches of Gravel

The amount of gravel you use in your landscape will influence its susceptibility to grass growth.

If you only add a small, thin layer of gravel to your landscape, you can expect to see more grass growing from underneath it.

Therefore, you should use at least 3 inches of gravel to discourage grass from growing.

Assuming the gravel extends at least 3 inches deep, grass won’t be able to easily grow in it.

Choose a Smaller Type of Gravel

Another tip to prevent grass from growing in gravel is to choose a smaller type of gravel.

Large rocks are undoubtedly attractive and aesthetically pleasing, but they are more susceptible to grass growth than smaller rocks and granules.

The problem with large rocks is that they leave open spaces for grass to grow. Choosing a smaller type of gravel, on the other hand, ensures that no part of the underlying soil is directly exposed to sunlight, thereby helping to prevent grass from growing in the gravel.

Cover Soil With Black Plastic Sheeting

Perhaps the easiest way to maintain grass-free gravel is to cover the soil with black plastic sheeting.

Before laying or pouring your gravel, for example, place black plastic sheeting over the soil. After stretching and securing the sheeting to the ground, you can then add your desired gravel.

How does black sheeting prevent grass from growing exactly?

Once placed over the soil, it will block sunlight so that nothing is able to grow underneath.

All types of grass require sunlight to grow. By placing black plastic sheeting between the soil and your gravel, neither grass nor any other plants will be able grow underneath it.

Spray With Herbicide

Of course, you can also use an herbicide to keep grass out of your gravel.

Some homeowners spray their gravel with an herbicide before laying or pouring it in their landscape, whereas others spray their gravel after laying or pouring it in their landscape.

Regardless of which method you choose, herbicide should prevent most grass from growing in your gravel.

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