Landscape Rock Calculator
Plan your decorative rock project with precision. Enter your bed dimensions, choose a rock size, and get the exact tonnage and cost for landscape rock, Mexican beach pebbles, lava rock, or any decorative stone.
Popular Landscape Rock Types
Lava rock is lightweight and red or black, excellent for xeriscaping and desert themes. Mexican beach pebbles are smooth, dark, and premium-priced for modern designs. White marble chips brighten shaded areas but may raise soil pH over time. Slate chips add blue-gray tones and lie very flat. Granite and river rock come in earth tones and work in nearly any setting. Consider your home exterior color, plants, and climate when choosing. Dark rocks absorb heat, which can stress nearby plants in hot climates.
Landscape Rock vs. Mulch
Rock lasts indefinitely while mulch decomposes in 1 to 3 years, so rock has a higher upfront cost but lower long-term expense. Rock also eliminates mulch fungus, artillery fungus staining on siding, and dye runoff. However, rock does not improve soil fertility the way decomposing mulch does. For flower beds with annuals and perennials, mulch is often better. For permanent installations around trees, foundations, and in arid climates, landscape rock is the practical choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much landscape rock do I need per square foot?
At 2 inches deep, you need about 0.01 cubic yards or roughly 13 pounds per square foot for most stone types.
What is the cheapest landscape rock?
Local quarry stone and crusher run are the cheapest at $20 to $50 per ton. Specialty rocks like Mexican beach pebbles can cost $200 to $400 per ton.
Does landscape rock attract bugs?
Rock does not attract termites or ants like wood mulch, but the moisture underneath can harbor pill bugs and crickets. Landscape fabric underneath reduces this.