The nice thing about creating your own rock garden is that you can be as creative as you like.  Whether you have a large dedicated space or very small space or spaces, the process of creating the rock garden is pretty much the same.                  

Chose your Site and Prepare the Soil

Carefully select the site in your yard where you would like your rock garden to be located.

Clear the area of all debris and establish a good soil bed.  Just like in agriculture you are cultivating a crop (rocks and plants) and the more thought you put into it the better the yield.

Soil conditions are important depending on the type of plants you intend to use.  Be sure to mix in a basic fertilizer into your soil. Fertilizing your rock garden is like growing and harvesting crops. You must feed the soil and site of your creative efforts.

As in any landscape project be sure to consult with your nursery as to the best types of plants for the type of garden you are planning. 

Working in your rock garden is not like plowing or tilling a field, but it can be frustrating and exhausting.  Be sure to drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen and take rest breaks.More...Gather Rocks of All Sizes 

I have often been asked what are the rocks for in a rock garden?

It isn’t always apparent.  Rocks can be used to raise the elevation levels of your garden, or simply to accent the look of nature.

Be sure to gather rocks of all sizes large semi-boulders, etc.  You can bury them in sand, use them to create dunes or hills, or even small walls.  You can create circular patterns or other shapes with the rocks.  You can plant your color plants or small plants in and about your rock formations so as to create a “natural” look as in nature.

Be Creative 

The basic idea behind rock gardening is to be creative and use large and small plants together in your garden.  Be bold and mix colors.  Mix soil and sand and have a cactus rock garden adjacent to a rich soil color rock garden.

Put in a small fountain or wishing well or bird feeder.  Or in larger gardens put in a bench or lounge chair, or small pond.

People I know who love music have put in outdoor speakers and have music or nature sounds coming from their rock garden areas.

Outdoor lighting can be used to illuminate the area with brilliant effects.  Let you imagination rock and roll as you work in your garden.  Play music, wear your head set, wear comfortable clothing, and have fun.

Remember there is no right or wrong way in planning or planting your rock garden.

Rock gardening is very much like painting a picture.  Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Where to Find Rocks

Rocks can be found in vacant fields or better yet at construction sites.  Be sure to ask the owners or operators for permission to remove rocks.  

Ask For Help  

Don’t be too proud! 

Whether you are planning an organic, bull rock, bubble or pyramid rock garden ask your local nursery supply or garden company for information.  They can be an invaluable resource to you.  Also if you see a nice rock garden in someone’s front yard, knock on their door and maybe they can give you some helpful tips on planning and creating your own unique rock garden. 

Remember Rocks Rule!!!