Backyards
Front Yards
Ideas for Landscaping with Boulders
Six ways to use boulders as functional elements in your landscapeFor years people have been using boulders to accent their landscaping. Boulders can be grouped amongst plantings or used to divide areas in a garden. But have you ever thought of using them as a fire pit, seating, a fountain, or even a planter? Check out these awesome ideas for landscaping with boulders.
Boulder Fire Pit
By hollowing out a wide hole in this boulder it can be used as a fire pit. In this case, wood is burned, but a boulder fire pit could also be connected to an underground gas line.
Boulder Seating
In this northwest backyard Heidi Skievaski, owner of Sublime Garden Design, used boulders as seating around a fire pit. She hand selected large, blocky boulders with flat tops so that they would be suited for sitting. Learn more about this project: Northwestern Backyard Retreat.
Address Boulder
Rather than simply displaying this home's address on the mailbox Margie Grace, of Grace Design Associates, elected to use a large, red boulder. Learn more about this project: Fire Safe Landscape.
Boulder Planter
This raised planter was created from a boulder that was cut in half and hollowed out. Don't forget drainage holes on the bottom.
See how a Portland landscaper uses boulders
Boulder Fountain
Here three holes were drilled in a boulder and it was plumbed to serve as a fountain. Water bubbles out of the rock and flows into a hidden underground reservoir. Learn more about disappearing fountains.
Play Boulders
In this desert courtyard, small boulders tucked amongst landscape plantings serve as play elements for young children. The kids can run or jump from boulder to boulder. The designer of this garden, Rachel Gioannini, recommends burying boulders one-third below grade for the most natural look. Learn more about this project: Colorful Desert Courtyard.
While boulders look great amongst landscape plantings, now you know that they can also be used as functional landscaping elements. Boulders look good in nearly any style of garden, but they are especially suited for use in country gardens. They have a natural rustic appeal that adds another dimension to the design.
