At first it seems: “How complicated can it be to install garden stones? Just sprinkle them all over the ground and voila! You’re done.
You see, weeds can become a big problem with pebbles. This is why we suggest not skimping on materials and laying a thick layer of pebbles to prevent weeds from growing through them. Alternatively, you can add Roundup as a treatment to the soil before placing the stones. This will also prevent weeds from penetrating the soil.
Another consideration is adding a substrate between the stones and the soil. This creates a weed barrier and prevents weed seeds from touching the soil. Here we recommend choosing a landscape fabric, double weed mat or black plastic as a base. Compared to landscape fabric, plastic creates a stronger weed barrier but water does not pass through it to feed the shrub’s roots. If you choose the plastic option, be sure to punch holes in it so the bushes get the water they need to grow.