Using stones in landscaping: Are man

Mother Nature is Perfect

I”m a Landscape Contractor here in North Central Florida.Our area is dotted with Lime Rock Pits.As in our geographical area Mother Nature has created a belt of Lime Stone that runs right down the center of Florida.Also in this area we have a large number of Sink Hole’s and Fresh Water Springs.We are lucky to have an abundance of Lime Stone to use in our Landscapes.

Construction Companies during site work will remove large stones that hinder construction on the site project.These are either stock piled on site or hauled off to other larger stock piles.I’m lucky to have grown up in this area as I know a lot of the Contractors that I went to school with and have been friends with for many years.So when I need stones I can have easy access to a large variety,some as large as small compact car to as small as just the right stone to fill in that annoying hole.

The prefabricated Stones look appealing from a distance but upon closer inspection they fail to add and capture the full appeal of ones eye.The variety of prefabricated stone is fairly abounded in color,shape and size.But what you purchase is what you have to use in the Landscape of your home or property.These are also easier to transport and install into a Landscape project.But the shape and size can’t be modified to change the the appearance of prefabricated stones.

Where as a natural stone can be modified to almost any shape and size.With the correct tools these can be split.chipped,broken,drilled into just the right stone for that placement.I do understand that most home owners don’t have these tools at their disposal,but you can hire a Contractor that can modify it to just the right size and shape.Also if you choose carefully when collecting your stones there will be no need to modify the shape or size.I have spent hours combing the many stones to collect just the prefect stone or stones for my clients.Natural stones appeal with water falls and ponds add to the appearance of that much need touch.

Natural stones can be piled on top of each other to accomplish a natural look.Can be erected up right with other stones placed around.The look and desire are limitless,only your own technique and design are the limit.I have used Hammer Drills,Jack Hammers even chisel and hammers to accomplish just the perfect stone.So use your imaginative skill look on the internet,look around in your neighborhood for some ideas on how to place and install these to your project.

If you live in an area where stones are present and you see a construction site with stones littered around the site,stop and ask if you can have or purchase some.In most cases the Contractor will be glad for you to remove these so they will have less to remove from their site.They may even deliver a load to your project at a price.If so then ask if you can hand pick the stones that you feel will enhance the appeal of your Landscape project.Here is a (hint) purchase a can of marking paint at the local hardware store to mark the ones you desire.This paint fades away over time and will not leave a mark on your stones.So I say use natural Stones rather than Prefabricated Stones because Mother Nature is Perfect!