Rocks or Mulch: Which is Best for Your Landscape?

rocks

mulch

Let’s say your yard needs 10 cubic yards of material. Here’s how the costs of rocks and mulch would compare over 5 years.

Total for 5 Years:

Initial cost: $300

4 yearly replacements: $300 x 4 = $1,200

= $1,500 for 10 cubic yards over 5 years

*This price doesn’t include installation cost. So, if you hire someone else to spread the mulch, then the price will be higher.

Total for 5 Years:

Initial cost: $800

Maintenance: $50 x 2 = $100

= $900 for 10 cubic yards over 5 years

If you choose rocks , they will last a long time and don’t need frequent replacement.

They’re perfect for areas with little debris, like pathways or spots without trees. To prevent weeds, you’ll need to lay black plastic with weed fabric underneath before adding the rocks.

However, over time, dirt and leaves will collect between the rocks, and weeds can still grow. Every few years, you might need to clean the rocks by pulling them up, washing them, replacing the fabric, and reusing the rocks. Rocks can also spill into the lawn, potentially damaging your mower. If you have lots of trees, cleaning fallen leaves from rocks can be frustrating.

On the other hand, mulch is easier to install and costs less upfront. It keeps your soil healthy, retains moisture, and protects plant roots. But mulch needs to be replaced every 1–2 years because it fades, hardens, or grows mold. Over time, the mulch can build up too much, so you’ll need to remove the old layers before adding new ones. If you use a leaf blower, mulch can be tricky because it blows away easily.

In the end, rocks are great for long-term, low-maintenance solutions but need occasional deep cleaning. Mulch is ideal if you want healthier soil and don’t mind refreshing it regularly. Choose what works best for your yard and lifestyle!

The choice between rocks and mulch comes down to your preferences, landscaping needs, and how much time you’re willing to spend on maintenance.

For Clarksville’s hot summers and cold winters, we recommend using mulch for flowerbeds and gardens. It helps your plants stay hydrated, protects roots, and improves the soil as it breaks down.

Use rocks only for decorative areas or low-maintenance zones like pathways, around trees, or decorative areas without plants.

Are you still deciding between rocks or mulch for your garden? Let GreenLife Services help you!

We’re experts in creating beautiful, easy-to-maintain landscapes in Clarksville, TN, and nearby areas. We’ll take a look at your yard and help you choose whether rocks or mulch is better for your yard. 

We offer free quotes with zero obligation. We’re happy to help, so feel free to call us!  

Did you know that there are so many types of mulch? There are wood chip mulch, bark mulch , cedar mulch , and many others. So, which one would be best for your yard? Head to our blog , to learn about mulch and other landscape design tips.

A. Rocks are better for areas near your house if you want low maintenance and better drainage. They don’t decompose, so they last longer, but they can get hot and may not be great for plants. Mulch is better for improving soil and keeping plants healthy, but it needs to be replaced regularly. Avoid placing wood mulch directly against your home to prevent pest issues.