Lava rock is best used in beds that feature shrubs and other tall plants, because of its thickness. The more moisture retentive growing medium/potting mix available, the less often a plant will need to be watered, as long as the pot is not too big. Alternatively, you can place inside a decorative pot. Make sure that it has contact with plant roots. Set out rocks in all one color for a unified effect, in contrasting colors -- such as black and red lava rocks -- for variety or use … If you MUST use gravel or rocks, do so outside the bottom part of the pot. If you don’t want to add weight, try some of the inexpensive or free suggestions above and skip the expense of lava rock. This rock is lighter than other rocks used as mulch, so it is easier to work with. Remember, lava rock is lightweight so the odds of this happening are higher than with other gravel. Lay the lava rock in a layer around the base of the plants and throughout the flower bed. The best part is they can be rearranged unlike moss on a large piece of driftwood. First of all, you need to decide whether you want to use lava rocks as fixtures among your plants or you will use them as mulch. Use thick gloves when handling feather rock or other lava rocks. Use rocks in home landscaping to protect plants, reduce erosion and add interest. Landscaping with rocks adds texture and contrast, providing durable groundcover that requires little or no maintenance. Lava Rock for Plant Drainage? To apply your rock dust, simply sprinkle it onto the top few inches of your garden bed and gently till it in. Lava rocks do not decompose, only requiring replacement as they are blown, washed or kicked away. Conclusion Succulents have shallow root bases and install easily in depressions in the rock. Fill in bare areas with small stones. How to Use Rocks in Your Landscape Natural stone is one of the most versatile elements available for a landscape makeover. Lava rock is ideal for temperature moderation as the rocks release heat at night and this can be beneficial for plants in colder regions, says SFGate. Create focal points with volcanic boulders. Additional Tips for Using Volcanic Rock Dust. I have seen many great pictures of mosses covering rocks and making nice mounding forms. Instead of using rocks to prevent the potting mix from escaping through the drainage holes, (which by the way is the other reason why gardeners add gravel at the bottom) use a landscaping fabric. Nearly all plants prefer a natural wet-dry cycle, as that’s what they experience in nature. The stones can be placed on pathways to give a colorful design effect, or used as border decorations. Yes, you can use lava rock, however, remember it is very lightweight, and one of the reasons why you would want to add rocks or gravel if to ADD weight. Do not allow the lava rock to rub the trunks and stems of the plants, as it could cut the plant… Once you have the hole or dimple you wish, press potting soil into the bottom and then add the plant. 2 If you plan to use them as fixtures, then you should try to purchase large-size rocks, as they are lighter in weight and easy to maintain. Gardeners and garden architects use lava rocks for decorative and water retaining purposes. Would lava rock intended for the barbecue be ok to use … Use eye protection if you are drilling or chiseling into the material. Give plants as much space to spread their roots out, relative to what they can use or need. Smaller lava rocks are used as mulch to collect water and to avoid erosion. I heard lava rock holds roots and mosses well since it is porous. Using volcanic rock dust in your garden is a simple process, but … The edges are extremely sharp. Tall plants, because of its thickness you don’t want to add weight, try some of pot... 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