Low-maintenance and eye-catching, rock gardens are a beautiful addition that'll level up your landscaping game and boost your curb appeal. Want to create your own? Learn how to make a rock garden with our step-by-step guide that'll have you tackling this DIY in no time.

What Is a Rock Garden?

Rock gardens use rocks in a variety of different sizes to create outdoor arrangements. They can enhance existing landscaping by creating sculptural interest, though they're also a great substitute for traditional landscaping if you live in a dry climate or want something that requires less maintenance.

Best of all, rock gardens are highly customizable in size, shape, and style so that you can create one that matches the surrounding natural landscape. You can choose rocks that match the style of your home, decorative elements like fountains, or plants that are native to your region for a rock garden that feels personal.

How to Build a Rock Garden

What You'll Need:

• Shovel
• Sod cutter (optional)
• Garden trowel
• Wheelbarrow or garden cart
• Landscaping rocks (multiple sizes)
• Soil
• Plants
• Decorative landscaping elements (optional)

Step 1: Make a Plan

Before you start making a rock garden, it's important to create a plan for your design. You'll want to figure out where you plan on building the rock garden, what plants you want to include, how large it'll be, and what shape would work best. If this is your first rock garden, you can always start it as a small one and expand it over time.

There are two main rock garden designs: raised and sprawling. Raised rock gardens resemble elevated garden beds, sloping upward and inward. Sprawling rock gardens are built into your landscaping and extend outward rather than upward.
Find inspiration for your rock garden by reading our guide The Best Low-Maintenance Rock Garden Ideas.

Tip!

To streamline maintenance, look for plants that have similar water requirements and thrive in the amount of sunlight your garden will receive. Drought-resistant plants are a great choice for low-maintenance rock gardens.

Step 2: Prep the Area

Once you've decided where you want to create the rock garden, start preparing the area by digging up any grass or plants with a shovel or cutting them out with a sod cutter. Arrange the large rocks to act as a perimeter for your rock garden, loosely creating whichever shape you've chosen. Fill the inside area with sandy soil to provide adequate drainage for your rock garden.

Step 3: Add More Rocks

If you're creating a raised rock garden, you can start placing another layer of rocks inside the original circle. Place large rocks near the bottom and work your way upward; the larger size will help provide a stable foundation for the rest of your rock garden. Pack soil into the base of each rock and make sure that each one is stable to ensure longevity.

If you're making a sprawling rock garden, use your large rocks to create focal points that you'll want to highlight. Use smaller rocks to complement the larger stones or create different zones within your rock garden.

Step 4: Fill in With Soil

After your rocks are placed, it's time to spread the soil. Plants best suited for rock gardens prefer soil that drains well, so you might need to amend your soil with compost, sand, or topsoil to make it more suitable. Use a wheelbarrow or garden cart to transport the soil to the rock garden and fill in your rock garden.

Step 5: Plant the Plants

While the plants are still in their pots, arrange them where you'd like them to be planted. Placing plants in groups of three – especially if they are the same type of plant or have similar needs – can help you create a cohesive design and simplify maintenance. Use a trowel to start planting after you've determined the best layout, using extra soil or decorative rocks as you go.

Step 6: Finish the Look

Complete your rock garden with finishing touches, such as small decorative stones, mulch, edging, or pieces of garden decor. These additions can tie your rock garden together and make it feel polished.

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