Big Stepping Stones

Stepping stones are such a fixture in many landscapes. Here's a few tips to make them work and actually add to the beauty of your little corner of the world.


1. Pick the right size stepping stone, be it real stone or man made. Consider going a little larger than you actually need, as you'll often lose some of your stepping surface if grass, soil or mulch cover some of the stone.









2. Take your time on the installation, being sure to bury the stone at a depth where water will not collect on the surface of the stone and so that a mower can roll easily across the stone if it is place in a turf situation. Also, be careful to set the stone so it doesn’t rock on you when you step on it. This is another reason to use a larger stone, as large stones are less likely to move around on you.








3. Pick out pretty stones for your project. Look at your surroundings and try to imagine how your stepping stones will blend with the rest of your yard. These stones will be around for a long time to come.








PHOTOS: I designed the layout and installed these stepping stones about three years ago in Birmingham, AL.