Lawnscaping has a home for artificial rocks

Pulling rocks from the fields and stacking them into walls was the back breaking lot of early farmers. An unavoidable task if fields were to be made ready for the plow. Today, in our suburban culture it’s reversed, landscape designers often include big heavy rocks in their designs. They also taking advantage of modern technology by using artificial rocks to achieve the natural rock effect. The advantage of artificial rocks is pretty obvious in some situations and that accounts for their growing appeal. In turn, the increased popularity is prompting the manufacture of more sizes and shapes.

Fake rocks are usually cast from real rocks with methods perfected to capture all the detail of a wild rock. We take it all for granted once placed in a lawn setting and the natural color and shadows created give the effect of a form that blends in perfectly with surrounding elements. A big advantage is being able to place a rock exactly the way you want it. Preferred materials are highly durable fiberglass and high density plastic (HDP), making artificial rocks a fraction of the weight of their natural cousins. This makes it possible to enjoy a natural looking arrangement without the backbreaking work.

Walk the neighborhood and you will see the new trend in larger houses that present landscape designers with the challenge of making more with less space. In addition to environmental issues imposed by local jurisdictions there is a growing cry from neighbors and homeowner associations against imposing structures never imagined for a seemingly reduced size lot. Add to that other considerations that may include, patios, jacuzzis and hot tubs for private outdoor activities. It‘s a challenge for designers, poring over codes, reference books and field notes, to make this all work. Each planting and landscape element must be carefully chosen to satisfy the needs and requirements. The plantings themselves need consideration. Each has requirements for root space, water and sun light, if they are to thrive, protect and conceal. Some professionals turn to natural and artificial rocks to organic shapes to this mix for year round beauty.

Small spaces can benefit from the natural look of a large rocks. With a trend toward a more natural look that compliments the house and offer more privacy, rocks have become a popular design element. Porches, for example, are making a grand revival. As add-ons they call for a different way of making a pleasing transition from the street through a reduce the front lawn Since they offer year-around beauty and low maintenance they are an easy choice.

Ideas come from many directions, but once it’s there and plans are made it’s time to spring into action. Creating a special place that has “eye appeal” may call for stone as a functional and unifying element. Laying a meandering walkway or a ring around a hot tub can do a lot. Or, for a focal point to dress up a plain lawn, look to a grouping of a large rocks, clustered with other large greenery of varied shapes and textures like juniper, boxwood and viburnum. Artificial rocks can also be an effective solution, especially for this type of project. And by using artificial rocks you can stay within budget and still have a success story.

See our section on small yard landscaping ideas for more ideas for making plantings and artificial rocks transform your lawn and garden into something special at www.a4-adirondackchairs.com.