Backyard is approx. 10X10. I'd like to use pea gravel as ground cover - Is a tarp needed under gravel?

Answer 1

I would use landscape cloth. You see, putting gravel down is great, since it helps alleviate any muddy areas and is a stable cover for the ground. However, rainwater will collect on a tarp (impermeable), which if you have some problems like heavy rains, could be detrimental to your foundation or attract insects like mosquitos. Instead, I would use the landscaping cloth since it prevents weeds (blocking growth because it is a barrier and because it is kind of opaque), but does have holes to facilitate drainage to the earth below. You won't have insect issues like you would with plastic and it lasts about 5 years before you see some minor problems with oxidation.

You can use 2 layers if you purchase cheap landscape cloth (my choice, usually) or 1 if you get the professional grade. You use regular scissors to cut but do need stakes to keep the cloth down until you get the gravel on ... I suggest 1 box. You'll find this actually costs less than a tarp but works quite well. Put the stakes towards your edges and you have a very workable solution.

Answer 2

The problem with pea gravel is that it does not pack down to form a firm surface--it shifts around a lot--like sand. If you are a senior person or have visitors with any sort of trouble walking, it is going to be difficult for them to walk around in your yard. Children or dogs will send the stuff flying everywhere, too.

If you need a firm surface, a better choice is crushed stone, which can be packed down to form a relatively firm hard layer that still allows for drainage. Another very inexpensive option -- if you live in a very dry climate -- is DG, decomposed granite mixed with DG stabilizer.

As to whether or not you need an underlayment under the material, it depends on if you will ever want to remove the gravel or stone to plant or put down concrete. With any kind of rock or gravel, it will gradually mix itself into the soil below, which will take a lot of work, eventually, to remove.

One thing you DON'T want to use is plastic or a tarp. This is because water will be unable to drain through the tarp, and your little yard will turn into a lake every time it rains. You want something that water can drain through, such as shade or landscape fabric.

Another option you might consider is flagstones or stepping stones with a groundcover planted in between. A yard that is all stone can be bleak and very hot in summer time--a few plants can help keep the area a bit cooler and more inviting.

Answer 3

In order to keep weeds down , if you don't have any trees or plants in your back yard put down some weedkiller before putting down a layer of black material you can get from B&Q which lets the rainwater drain through but helps to suppress weeds.

Answer 4

Using a tarp isn't the best choice. I think you should use a landscaping fiber. the choices are endless. you just have to go to your local garden center to examine the one that fits your certain situation. GOOD LUCK ITS FUN!!!!

Answer 5

I wouldn't put anything down under it. Plastic seems to attract ant's nests under it and they could end up in your house.

Answer 6

No but a heavy guage plastic would work better