Laying a garden path is a practical necessity, whether you have a small or big space. Navigating the garden can be frustrating without a path because you risk stepping in mud or damaging the plants while walking. A beautiful garden path can enhance the look of your garden and make it easier for you and your family to walk around and enjoy the space.
How to lay a practical garden path that will also elevate the style of your garden? Read on to learn more.
Plan the Route
Planning the route is the first important step of the process. Since a path is a permanent or semi-permanent form of landscaping, it’s crucial to be happy with your plan. Walk around your garden to determine how to unite all the areas that interest you in a single route.
The first goal should be to connect the house to the outdoor seating area. However, this may not be enough. If you spend a lot of time in the garden tending to your plants, you may need a longer path to access high-maintenance plants or harvest fruit and vegetables.
Choose the Materials
You have many options when it comes to pathway materials. Gravel and mulch are the cheapest materials for a path or driveway. Mulch can create a good surface and comes in many colors. Another benefit of mulch is that it’s easy to spread and controls weeds. However, because it is an organic material, it needs regular replacement. Mulch has many practical uses, so consider buying a larger quantity. Use a reliable online tool to discover how many bags of mulch are in a yard.
Gravel is also an excellent material for a garden path. In addition, laying a gravel path is an easy and quick process. Pavers, stone, bricks, and wood chips are other popular choices of pathway materials.
Texture and structure are other details to consider because the material will define the garden’s style and affect the pathway’s durability. Wood chips, mulch, and gravel are loose surface materials. Tiles, bricks, pavers, and natural stone create a smooth, stable surface.
Take Exact Measurements and Mark Out the Area
Once you’ve decided how the path will look, mark the route with pegs and string to get a clear picture of the layout. By taking exact measurements, you will know how much material to buy. The width of the path is another vital detail. Will two people be able to walk side by side? Will the path be wide enough to allow you to carry things into and out of the garden?
After marking the area, take a shovel or spade and clear the way. You may also need a wheelbarrow. Remove all the grass and topsoil and rake the ground before laying the path.
Final Words
If you love DIY landscaping projects, laying a garden path can be a great way to test your skills while improving your outdoor space. Plan your project now using reliable resources.