A natural stone pathway winding through your garden offers a pleasing hardscape element that encourages visitors and family members to stay out of flower beds. If you'd like to add this feature to your landscape, understanding the process will prevent logistical problems and simplify the installation. Use this guide to plan the ideal stone walkway through your yard. 

How to Plan the Perfect Natural Stone Garden Pathway

1. Review Materials

Select from different natural stones, such as bluestone that’s available in various shapes and sizes, including oblong, square, and rectangle, and comes in brown, blue, rust, and green tones. Limestone offers light color choices that reflect heat. However, both of these options are porous and require sealing to avoid water damage. 

Pavers are also typically made from natural stone and come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes, including irregular shapes that create unique patterns. They can be smooth, embossed, cobbled, sand-textured, weathered, or tumbled to accommodate your backyard’s aesthetic.

2. Consider Shade

A natural stone path that’s constantly in the shade provides an environment for mildew and moss that make the walkway dangerously slippery. Tree trimming can help reduce shade concerns if the chosen location is mostly sunny. 

You might also want to use unconnected stones if shadiness is an issue, as you can widen the space between the steps so that the materials receive more sunlight. 

3. Think About an End Point

Determine if you want the stone path to be a loop and circle back to its original location or a direct walkway that features an eye-catching endpoint. The end of the path could be a new and different feature, such as a rock or exotic plant garden. 

It could also feature a stone bench or small structure, such as a gazebo or arbor. Hidden spots add mystery and originality to your yard and make it fun for the kids to explore the property.

Discuss your natural stone walkway aspirations with our team at Edgefield Plant & Stone Center. We offer landscape design and installation services to homeowners throughout the Triad Area of North Carolina and are fully licensed, bonded, and insured. Our services are always eco-friendly, and we have over 30 years of experience under our garden tool belts. Call (336) 662-0081 to request a quote, or browse our online gallery for inspiration.