Gravel beds are trendy because they are extremely easy to care for and fit wonderfully into modern green spaces and front gardens. The natural steppe and grass landscapes of the Mediterranean region, the rather barren dry and semi-dry grasslands of the Alps and the artistic layout of Japanese gardens serve as models. The planting of the bed is based on natural occurrence and, when put together in a varied manner, offers something for the eye all year round.
Which plants are suitable for a gravel bed?
Plants such as blue fescue, gentian, carnations, bluebells, thyme, sage, oregano, lavender, bamboo, Japanese ornamental maple, sedge and bearskin grass are suitable for an attractive gravel bed. The selection of plants varies depending on the source of inspiration such as Alpine rock gardens, Mediterranean flair or Japanese gardens.
The Alpine rock garden
The look here is determined not only by plants and grasses, but also by the large stones and small trees that are randomly placed. Popular plants are:
- Blue Fescue
- Gentian
- Carnations
- Bluebells
- creeping juniper
- Saxifrage
- Thyme.
Woods such as the dwarf pine, cherry laurel or the butterfly bush complement the planting. Grasses such as quaking grass or heron feather grass set attractive accents not only in summer, but also in winter when covered in hoarfrost and snow.
Gravel bed with Mediterranean flair
Here you immediately think of the aromatic, fragrant shrubs and herbs of the Mediterranean region. These include varieties such as thyme, sage, oregano or rosemary, which can remain outdoors all year round with appropriate winter protection. Perennials like:
- Lily
- Yarrow
- Sweet Thistle
- Lavender
spread a southern flair with their colorful flowers. Woody plants such as the Chinese hemp palm, which can even tolerate frost, the winter-hardy garden hibiscus or juniper, set appropriate accents alongside grasses with interesting leaf shapes. Roses also look very good in this bed.
The Japanese-inspired gravel bed
Japanese gardens are diverse and yet radiate peace. The perfect interplay of stones, plants and water elements undoubtedly contributes to this special magic. Typical plants that go well with the look of this gravel bed include:
- Bamboo
- Garden Bonsai
- Japanese ornamental maple
- Spruce and pine
- Medlar
- Dogwood
- Sedge
- Bearskin grass.
Probably the most famous plant in these gardens, the cherry tree, should not be missing in a spacious bed. With its flowers you can say goodbye to the cold winter like the Japanese and welcome the new garden season.
Tip
For every ten square meters of bed, you should plant around two to three frames (small trees), four to ten accompanying perennials and up to thirty short species. If you want to keep the maintenance effort low even in autumn, you should avoid deciduous shrubs.