Rocks are found in every garden today whether they are flower, vegetable, or herb gardens. Rocks represent a natural element of nature. Rock gardens are ideal for forming a foundation for your garden as well as create pathways or line a pond. They are not only a beautiful addition but they have functionality as well. Rock gardens even help stop soil erosion.

Installation - When installing rocks in your garden bury it about 1/3 of its size into the ground. Burying the rock will ensure that during storms, the rocks are not moved around which could ruin plants and flowers.

You will always want to make sure the rocks have a proper drain field surrounding them. If your rocks do not have proper drainage they can form pockets of water that can drown your flowers and plants.

Plant Selection - When choosing plants that will be part of your rock garden pick plants that spread out when they grow and have a clumping habit.

Some great options for plants that grow well next to rocks are:

• Iberis
• Iris
• Red Carpet
• Pink Chintz
• Rubra
• Zinnia
• Geraniums
• Dwarf Evergreen Trees
• Miniature Rose

Moss Rock - A great kind of rock for your garden will be Moss Rock. Moss rocks are native to Colorado and is granite covered in lichens. You can find wonderful rocks from nurseries, landscape contractors, and rock dealers. A successful rock garden will have many large rocks; some may even weigh up to 150 lbs!

Building a rock garden is practical, innovated and beautiful. Have fun when designing your rock garden. If you choose the proper placement, drainage, plants, and rocks then you are on your way to designing your rock garden.