Decomposed granite is one of those materials that is both stunningly versatile and of exceptional value for a number of natural landscapes. Decomposed granite can be the ideal solution, whether your vision is a non-mow garden pathway or patio surfaces. If you want to learn everything about the types and applications with respect to how much you should get with this guide, then read this post on Decomposed Granite in Landscaping for Beginners.
What is Decomposed Granite?
Decomposed granite (DG), often used as decomposed granite, is a granitic rock that weathers into smaller particles. This forms a very fine gravel or sanded mix, which is great for most anything when it comes to landscape. DG maintains a natural stone look with the ability to be a lot more flexible in design and installation.
Decomposed Granite Types and Benefits
Decomposed Granite Types
There are three main decomposed granite types used in landscaping:
- Natural (Loose) DG: Best for garden beds or areas with light foot traffic. It remains loose and provides good drainage.
- Stabilized DG: Mixed with a stabilizer, this type is firmer and is ideal for pathways or patios where stability is needed.
- Resin-Coated DG: This premium option includes a resin binder, offering a hard, almost pavement-like surface, perfect for driveways or high-traffic zones.
Decomposed Granite Benefits
- Aesthetic Appeal: Offers a natural look with earthy tones like gray decomposed granite and dark brown decomposed granite.
- Eco-Friendly: Permeable to water, reducing runoff and improving drainage.
- Cost-Effective: Affordable compared to pavers or concrete.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal upkeep after proper installation.
Decomposed Granite Alternative
If DG doesn’t suit your project, consider these alternatives:
- Crushed stone
- Pea gravel
- Mulch (for flower beds and gardens)
Each offers its own unique look and functionality, but may not provide the same compact, walkable surface as DG.
Decomposed Granite Uses
There are countless decomposed granite uses in landscaping and beyond:
- Pathways and Walkways
- Driveways
- Garden Borders
- Patios and Outdoor Seating Areas
- Around Fire Pits or Water Features
- Decorative Ground Cover in Flower Beds
How Much Decomposed Granite Do You Need?
Calculating how much decomposed granite you need depends on the square footage and desired depth. Here’s a quick guide:
- Coverage: 1 cubic yard of DG typically covers 100 square feet at 3 inches deep.
- Tip: Always add 10% extra to account for compaction and settling.
Use an online Decomposed Granite materials calculator or consult your supplier for help.
Decomposed Granite Color Types
Working with DG (decomposed granite), the best part is that you have so many types available in decomposed granite colors to have your landscaping style. Every color has its own ambiance, style, and purpose, so it is easier to create everything from modern walkways to rustic garden beds with them.
Gray Decomposed Granite
Gray decomposed granite is a timeless choice that works well with almost any modern, industrial, or minimalist landscape. It flows into concrete patios, steel, and high style. The decomposed granite gray also cools down since it reflects heat, especially with a warmer climate, as you might want cooler tones in the heat.
Dark Brown Decomposed Granite
A dark decomposed granite (like forest green) offers a warm, organic feel to your garden space and grounds. It works really well in woodland or forest style and complements the greens surrounding it. That color is a warm juxtaposition to lawns, the native plant palette, and wood structures.
Gold or Tan Decomposed Granite
DG in Gold and tan are some of the most common colors up North (like CA., Arizona, Texas, etc). These hues add a bright Mediterranean to the scene. They liven up pathways, patios, and garden borders; they reflect light, drawing life into outdoor living spaces.
Red or Rose Decomposed Granite
Sun, red or pink DG gives an eye-catching southwestern vibe for the outdoor area. Perfect for desert landscapes, this color complements well with cacti, succulents, terracotta, adobe, and architecture. It can also be a great accent of the right colors to a much more neutral garden scheme.
Buff or Beige Decomposed Granite
Buff or beige DG provides a non-committal, earthy appearance that works in both formal and great decomposed granite in landscaping styles (at least until you notice it’s DG). It’s so neutral it can be paired with any number of plant palettes and materials—stone or wood. This color is particularly good for introducing simple paths in your garden or introducing the zen-like outdoor living spaces.
Other Decomposed Granite Color Options
- Black DG – A striking and dramatic color ideal for sleek, high-contrast landscapes.
- White DG – Rare but elegant, white DG is often used in modern, upscale designs to create brightness and contrast.
- Greenish or Bluish DG – These uncommon shades can offer a cool, refreshing aesthetic when available and used sparingly as accent paths or feature areas.
Including a mix of decomposed granite color types allows you to fully customize your landscape. Whether you prefer the subtle charm of gray decomposed granite or the warmth of dark brown decomposed granite, there’s a shade to fit your vision and climate.
Decomposed Granite in Landscaping
DG is one of the top materials for landscape design because of its flexibility and beauty.
Decomposed Granite for Landscaping: From backyards to large estates, DG provides texture and color while remaining functional.
Decomposed Granite in Garden: Use DG to create neat garden paths, accent flower beds, or even replace mulch. It keeps weeds down and allows for drainage.
Decomposed Granite for Pathways: One of the most popular decomposed granite uses is in pathways. Stabilized or resin-bound DG creates solid walking surfaces that blend naturally with the environment.
Decomposed Granite Flower Beds: Instead of using bark or rubber mulch, many homeowners opt for DG in their flower beds. It lasts longer, looks cleaner, and helps maintain soil temperature.
How to Purchase Decomposed Granite
Decomposed granite (DG), buying it sounds easy, but knowing the type, color, and amount is harder than you think. This section will cover everything you need to know to shop wisely and spend your money on the pathway, garden border, or patio surface.
Purchase Decomposed Granite: Where to Buy
You can purchase decomposed granite from several sources, depending on your location, project size, and delivery needs:
- Local Landscaping Supply Yards
These suppliers usually have a wide variety of decomposed granite types in bulk. You can view color samples in person, ask for expert advice, and often get same-day delivery. - Home Improvement Stores
Big-box retailers like Home Depot and Lowe’s offer smaller quantities of DG, often in bags or by the pallet. This option is good for small DIY projects like decomposed granite flower beds or patch repairs. - Online Suppliers (with Delivery Options)
Many companies now offer online ordering with home delivery. You can explore decomposed granite color options (like gray decomposed granite or dark brown decomposed granite) and get quotes for your zip code. Be sure to factor in shipping fees when comparing prices.
Pro Tip: When ordering, clearly specify:
- The type: Natural, stabilized, or resin-coated DG
- The color: Match your landscape theme
- The quantity: Measured in cubic yards or tons
Decomposed Granite Price Per Cubic Yard
Understanding pricing is key to staying within your decomposed granite in landscaping budget. The decomposed granite price per cubic yard generally falls within this range:
| Type | Price per Cubic Yard |
|---|---|
| Natural Decomposed Granite | $40 – $55 |
| Stabilized Decomposed Granite | $55 – $70 |
| Resin-Coated Decomposed Granite | $65 – $75+ |
Note: Prices can vary based on your location, supplier, and the selected decomposed granite color.
- Natural DG is the most affordable, ideal for garden paths or decomposed granite in garden designs with minimal traffic.
- Stabilized DG includes a binder that helps hold the particles together—great for decomposed granite for pathways or patio bases.
Resin-Coated DG offers the most durability and is commonly used in public spaces, driveways, or sloped areas.
Tips for Cost Savings
- Buy in Bulk: Ordering in bulk (by the ton or cubic yard) usually lowers the price per cubic yard significantly compared to bagged DG.
- Combine Orders: If neighbors or nearby projects also need DG, place a joint order to save on delivery fees.
- Ask About Delivery Zones: Some suppliers offer free or discounted delivery within a certain radius.
Tips for Working with Decomposed Granite
- Prepare the Base: Remove existing soil or turf and add a compacted base layer.
- Use Edging: Keep DG in place using metal or stone edging.
- Compact in Layers: For best results, spread and compact in 2-inch layers.
- Wet for Compaction: Lightly mist water between layers to help bind particles
- Seal if Needed: For driveways or patios, a sealant can improve durability.
Decomposed Granite in Landscaping is a great way to save money and offer an affordable, as well as sustainable alternative, with lots of design uses. Whether you’re constructing pathways or a flower garden, DG brings simplicity and application to any DG project you have.
Ready to change your Backyard? Figure out your project requirements, which decomposed granite is best for you, and transform your landscaping dream into a reality!