How do I build a path?

Using rock-based products in the garden benefits the environment in numerous ways, and feels and looks delightful. Well-designed paths and steps will not only help direct you through the space, they’ll also help to place the spotlight on your plants. Try these steps:

1. USE a rope or hose to visually position your path. Follow its shape with marking spray paint, which can be sprayed while holding the can upside down.
2. SCRAPE 100mm of soil off the area to remove weeds and seeds, and provide a flat and even base.
3. CREATE a drainage layer using 20mm crushed rock. The layer should be 60–100mm thick. Rake it level, water it and compress it using a small compactor. These can be hired for half to a full day or more, and usually cost less than $100 a day.
4. INSTALL edging, if you’re using it.
5. ADD pebbles to a depth of 30–40mm for 10mm pebbles, or 50–60mm for 15–20mm pebbles.
6. ALTERNATIVELY, lay granitic sand to a maximum thickness of 50mm. If it’s any thicker it can become soft when it rains. Compact it two to three times, lightly watering in between.

NOTE: If using pebbles for your path, you can add a ‘separating layer’ to stop them from being pressed into the crushed rock (step 3). This is optional, but if doing so, use geotextile fabric. Avoid plastic sheeting, as it doesn’t allow soil to breathe or water to penetrate, and it’s not environmentally friendly. Woven weed mat is better, but although it deters weeds beneath, seeds landing on top may still germinate.

Header image credit: iStock