Q: I’m making a drainage ditch in my landscape. What type of rock should I use for the drainage?
A: Drainage gravel made of crushed rock (usually gray in color) is normally 1 to 2 inches long, also used for driveways and building foundations. Another option for drainage is shell gravel made of ground shells and other natural materials found on beaches, most often used in the coastal regions where it is produced. Some types of landscaping gravel are comprised of smooth, round stones selected as a more decorative option than the standard gray gravel. River rock is a popular type of smooth gravel and is usually 1 to 2 inches in diameter. This rock type is often installed in ponds or landscape areas with minimal foot traffic. Pebbles are another type of rounded drainage material much smaller than river rock and often used for French drain applications. Visit your local nurseries and garden centers to see a broad selection of drainage gravel in various aggregate sizes and color tones.
