If you're looking for a beautiful, low-maintenance material that enhances both the look and functionality of your landscape, pea gravel is one of the most reliable options available. At Aardvark Bark, we supply high-quality pea gravel that is clean, uniform, and perfect for everything from walkways and patios to garden borders and drainage systems.
Pea gravel is more than just a filler—it’s a design element, a drainage solution, and a landscaping staple all in one. With its smooth texture, natural color variations, and ease of installation, it’s no wonder homeowners, contractors, and landscapers alike turn to pea gravel for a wide range of projects.
What Is Pea Gravel?
Pea gravel is a type of small, rounded stone—generally ranging from 1/8” to 3/8” in diameter—that is naturally formed by weathering and erosion, often in riverbeds or beaches. It gets its name from its size and shape, which resembles a pea. Available in a range of colors including gray, tan, brown, and soft whites, pea gravel adds a decorative touch while providing practical benefits like weed suppression, erosion control, and drainage support.
Key Benefits of Using Pea Gravel in Landscaping
There are countless reasons to include pea gravel in your landscaping project. Its combination of aesthetic charm and practical performance makes it a smart choice for many outdoor applications. Here are just a few benefits:
1. Excellent Drainage
Because of its loose structure and rounded edges, pea gravel promotes excellent water drainage. It's ideal for use around foundations, in French drains, or in areas where excess water is a concern.
2. Low Maintenance
Once installed, pea gravel requires very little upkeep. It doesn’t decompose, rot, or attract pests, and occasional raking is all it needs to maintain an even, clean look.
3. Natural Appearance
The soft colors and smooth stones give pea gravel a rustic, organic feel that complements most landscape styles—from cottage gardens to contemporary outdoor spaces.
4. Affordable & Long-Lasting
Compared to pavers or concrete, pea gravel is a cost-effective solution. Plus, it lasts indefinitely without breaking down like wood chips or mulch.
5. Weed Suppression
When used with a landscape fabric barrier underneath, pea gravel forms a durable ground cover that keeps weeds at bay while allowing water to penetrate the soil.
Common Uses for Pea Gravel
Pea gravel’s versatility makes it suitable for a wide variety of projects. Whether you’re designing a backyard retreat or a commercial space, it’s a material you can count on.
Walkways & Pathways
Pea gravel creates attractive and comfortable walkways with a soft crunch underfoot. Because the stones are rounded, they’re easier to walk on than jagged gravel types, making them ideal for foot traffic.
Patios & Seating Areas
Use pea gravel as the base for an outdoor seating area or fire pit. It creates a stable, permeable surface that’s easy to maintain and pairs well with other natural materials like flagstone, wood, or concrete.
Dog Runs & Pet Areas
Pea gravel is pet-friendly—it doesn’t retain odors, stays cool in the sun, and drains well. It’s commonly used in dog runs and kennel spaces for easy cleanup and comfort.
Drainage & French Drains
Its porous nature makes pea gravel ideal for solving drainage issues. Use it in trenches, around downspouts, or as backfill behind retaining walls to help water move away from structures.
Garden Borders & Mulch Alternative
Looking for a clean edge around your garden beds or tree rings? Pea gravel offers a finished look that won’t blow away or break down like bark mulch. It also prevents splashback during rain and helps retain soil moisture.
Play Areas
Because it’s soft and rounded, pea gravel is often used as a surface for children’s play areas. It cushions falls and doesn’t splinter or harbor bugs like wood mulch can.
How to Install Pea Gravel Correctly
Installing pea gravel is straightforward, but doing it right will ensure long-term performance and appearance. Here’s a quick guide:
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Prepare the Base: Clear the area of vegetation and debris. Dig down a few inches to create a level base.
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Install Landscape Fabric: A good-quality landscape fabric helps prevent weed growth while allowing water to drain.
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Add a Border: Use edging to keep the gravel contained and prevent it from spreading into adjacent areas.
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Spread the Gravel: Distribute pea gravel to a depth of 2–3 inches for walkways, and 4–6 inches for driveways or drainage.
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Level and Compact: Rake the gravel into place and lightly tamp it down for even distribution.
Need help estimating how much you’ll need? Our team is happy to calculate the right volume based on your square footage and desired depth.
Blower Installation for Large-Scale Projects
For commercial installations or large residential jobs, Aardvark Bark offers blower truck delivery for fast, clean, and efficient pea gravel installation. Our high-powered trucks can place gravel precisely where it's needed—saving time, reducing labor costs, and eliminating site disruption.
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Reach up to 200+ feet
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Ideal for tight or elevated locations
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Reduces cleanup and manual labor
Blown-in pea gravel is perfect for hard-to-reach planters, rooftops, or sloped areas where traditional wheelbarrow delivery isn’t practical.
Why Choose Aardvark Bark for Pea Gravel?
When you order from Aardvark Bark, you’re not just getting a product—you’re getting a partner in your landscaping project. We take pride in delivering clean, uniform pea gravel that’s ready to enhance your property and perform in any setting.
Our Commitment to Quality:
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Screened for consistency – No excessive fines or debris.
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Clean, natural stone – No dyes, no coatings—just pure gravel.
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Bulk or blower delivery available – We deliver how you need it.
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Expert service – Our knowledgeable staff can help you choose the right product and quantity for your needs.
Whether you’re a homeowner working on a DIY project or a contractor managing a commercial install, we’re here to support your success.
Tips for Working with Pea Gravel
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Combine with stepping stones to improve stability and create visual interest in walkways.
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Use a solid base or grid system if you’re building a gravel driveway to prevent sinking and shifting.
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Refresh annually by topping off with a thin layer to keep your space looking crisp.
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Don’t skip edging—it makes all the difference in keeping your design tidy and contained.