Top 5 Landscape Rock and Gravel Trends for Arizona Backyards

• Landscape rock and gravel trends for Arizona exteriors focus on simplicity and sustainability.
• Earth tones and rock-based design are common in desert locations.
• Rocks can also be used to help control erosion in areas that receive heavy rain.

Arizona’s climate is known for its intense heat and relentless drought, both of which can make landscaping difficult for homeowners and landscapers alike. Despite these challenges, your outdoor spaces don’t have to be boring. Current Arizona landscaping trends embrace creativity to solve common landscaping conundrums, using solutions such as dry riverbeds, xeriscaping with low-water plants, and decorative rocks and boulders in place of traditional greenery and shrubs. Not only is desert landscaping beautiful when done intentionally, but it is also much lower maintenance than conventional landscaping designs. 

Minimalist Modern Landscape Rock Trends 

Many Arizona homeowners and landscapers opt for a minimalist, modern appearance for its simplicity and low-maintenance requirements. To achieve the look, consider the following ideas: 

• Focus on clean lines and soft colors for a relaxing vibe 
• Be intentional about decor: quality is greater than quantity 
• Use plants sparingly, and choose low-maintenance options you really love 
• Create an open space for a larger feel that captures a desert feel 

Modern landscape rock trends can include options such as:

• Decomposed granite, crushed stone, and light-colored gravel blends that mimic the colors and textures of the natural Arizona landscape.
• Use light-colored rocks to reduce heat absorption.
• Plants should be used sparingly to reduce your watering load and maintenance. 
• Rock-based landscaping is much lower maintenance than more conventional designs. 

Mixed Gravel Textures for Contrast and Depth 

One growing landscaping trend you may find useful is mixing and matching various gravel sizes and colors vs sticking with a single option throughout. This option creates visual depth and dimension without relying on high-maintenance elements like plants and water features. 

Rock layering is also good for your landscape from a practical standpoint as well. It can help prevent excessive erosion during the monsoon season and create clear boundaries between different areas of your landscape design. Gravel is also great for directing foot traffic or for use on walking trails.

Ways to Combine Your Rocks: 

• Rock borders paired with pea gravel walkways or patios
• Crushed granite with decorative stones 
• Gravel bases in neutral tones with bold lava rocks for contrast

Trending Gravel Types for Landscaping 

Some of the most popular options for creating this look include: 

• Pea gravel on walkable areas
• Decomposed granite on pathways and patios
• River rock borders or drainage solutions
• Lava rock for contrast or for use in garden beds 

Decorative Rock as Your Focal Point 

Traditionally, rocks have been used primarily as ground cover. Modern desert landscapes, however, use them as focal points. This will reduce your reliance on water-heavy plants while allowing you to create stunning designs that will instantly enhance curb appeal. 

Common rock features may include: 

• Boulder groupings
• Rock gardens with small plants
• Dry river beds
• Accent borders around firepits, patios, and garden beds

To add focal points you will love, keep these tips in mind: 

• Place in off-center groupings for depth and interest
• Choose a combination of sizes and shapes
• Mix and match light and dark colors for contrast 

Rock displays are fantastic for creating a customized look that won’t require hours of daily maintenance or water usage. 

Rocks Used for Focal Points 

Common rock varieties that can be used in your designs include: 

• River rock 
• Boulders
• Lava rocks
• Decomposed granite 

Warm, Earth Tone Color Schemes 

Landscape trends in Arizona lean heavily toward natural colors that blend with the surrounding desert environment. This can include rocks in shades like tan, mauve, red, clay, beige, soft gray, white, gold, and rust. Combining any blend of these colors can create a cohesive desert vibe that will make your outdoor spaces feel calming and relaxing. Keep in mind that lighter colors help keep your space cooler by reflecting the heat, so use them liberally while adding darker shades for a pop of visual interest and contrast. 

Embrace calming colors for a harmonious desert vibe that also adds timeliness appeal to your landscape. 

Rocks to Consider

Popular decorative rock ideas that make great additions to this theme include: 

• Sonoran beige
• Natural granite mixes 
• Sierra blend desert gold 

Functional Landscaping Designs for Drainage and Sustainable Style 

Although Arizona is known for its hot, dry climate, the weather can change very quickly. Monsoon seasons can bring runoff and flooding risk, while the heat of summer may require strict water conservation during the worst droughts. Thankfully, your landscaping can help you handle both extremes while still adding style and curb appeal to your home’s exterior. 

Uses for gravel within your landscaping design include: 

• Permeable ground cover
• Erosion control when used on slopes and hills 
• Foundation for patios and walkways 
• Drainage pathways 

Gravel is not only great for implementing xeriscaping principles, but it can also help you prevent or reduce erosion and lower the amount of water you use. To make the most of it in your landscaping, follow these general rules: 

• Install landscaping fabric before placing gravel
• Ensure your yard is properly graded
• Match colors to coordinate with your design for aesthetics and functionality

Trending Gravel Types for Landscaping Functionally 

• Crushed stone for compaction 
• Decomposed granite 
• River rock 

Choosing the Right Rock for Your Landscaping 

When choosing which rocks or gravel to use in your landscaping design, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. These can include: 

• Heat resistance: As we’ve established, lighter colors reflect heat, making for a cooler area. Choose these hues for locations where you’ll be spending time, such as patios. 
• Drainage: Gravel provides the best drainage in areas prone to flooding during heavy rain 
• Budget: The price per ton can vary widely depending on the grade and type of your rock. Be sure you know what price point you’re working with before you begin making your selection. 

Conclusion 

Today’s landscape rock and gravel trends focus on texture, sustainability, and simplicity in design. Choosing the right materials will ensure value and performance over time. Choosing quality materials and bulk supply is key to creating the look you want. If you have any questions, give our team at Saxum Resources a call.