Putting down stepping stones is a cute way to make a garden path or decorate a gravel driveway or patio. The rough look of worn-down stones sticking out from loose gravel gives gardens an organic, earthy vibe. It’s quick and easy to put stepping stones right on top of gravel, but over time, as the gravel settles, the stones may move around. If you put down stepping stones on a gravel base the right way, the path will be more stable and last longer.
Planning Your Stepping Stone Path
The first things to think about when planning a stepping stone path in gravel are the layout and design. Decide on the shape and flow of the path. Straight paths look better, but curved paths feel more natural. The stones should be about 2 to 3 feet apart so that most adults can easily step from one to the next. Place stones a little closer together in areas that will get a lot of use.
Measure the area and mark the path layout with spray paint or flour. Purchase enough uniformly sized stepping stones to cover the length of the pathway. Irregular shaped or various sized stones can create an uneven walking surface.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Shovel
- Rake
- Tamper
- 4×4 lumber
- Level
- Gravel
- Washed stone dust
- Stepping stones
- Landscape fabric (optional)
- Edging (optional)
Step-by-Step Installation
Follow these simple steps for properly installing stepping stones in gravel:
1. Prepare the Base
Remove any grass or debris from the installation area Level the soil beneath with a shovel then tamp down with a hand tamper Clear an area 24 to 36 inches wide to allow adequate workspace.
2. Install Landscape Fabric (Optional)
Cut lengths of landscape fabric to fit the area overlapping seams by 4 inches. This prevents weeds from sprouting up between the gravel and stepping stones. Secure fabric edges with landscaping staples.
3. Add and Compact Gravel
Dump, spread and compact a 4 inch gravel base over the installation zone. Compact gravel in 2 inch layers using a hand tamper or plate compactor. Gravel bases provide drainage and prevent shifting.
4. Build Edge Restraints (Optional)
Install edge restraints to keep gravel securely in place. Flexible plastic or metal landscape edging, bricks, stones, or treated wood boards all work well. Leave edging 1 inch above ground level.
5. Fill With Stone Dust
Add an inch or two of stone dust, which is also known as screenings, on top of the gravel base. Level and pack down the stone dust. This will be the bed where the stepping stones will go.
6. Set Stepping Stones
Place stepping stones one at a time on top of the stone dust base, spacing them 2 to 3 feet apart. Use a level to ensure each stone sits evenly. If needed, adjust stone dust beneath to level.
7. Lock Stones In Place
Sweep stone dust over the open areas between stepping stones. Sprinkle water over the stone dust to dampen it. The water helps pack down the dust, which keeps the stones firmly in place.
8. Complete The Path
Check that all stepping stones sit solidly without rocking. Add more stone dust and tamp down if any stones feel loose. Sweep off any excess stone dust once finished.
Caring for Your Stepping Stone Pathway
With proper installation and occasional maintenance, a stepping stone path set in gravel provides years of enjoyment. Regularly check for shifting stones and refill areas around the stones that have settled using more stone dust. Limit weed growth by reapplying landscape fabric. Routinely sweep away debris and gravel that has scattered off the path.
A stepping stone walkway blends beautifully into natural landscapes or gardens. The simplicity of installing these rustic pathways makes them a DIY project suitable for all levels. Following the proper techniques for setting stones into a gravel base results in a finished path that provides stable, long-lasting functionality. Get creative with stepping stone materials, shapes and layouts to design a unique garden accent.
Tiny White Snails Invading Your Lawn – How To Get Rid of Them Naturally