Split, it looks fantastic and requires no maintenance

Using techniques developed in Europe over the last few decades, it is possible to us natural stone in your garden to create a pleasant environment and to reduce to a minimum, physical and financial maintenance.

After all everybody prefers to sit in their garden relaxing rather than be on their knees pulling out weeds.

The common problems in tropical garden settings are due to flooding during the rainy season, this leads to the garden becoming a muddy swamp and promotes the growth of unwanted weeds and fungus. How many times have you wanted to BBQ with your friends and family only to step into your garden and sink ankle deep into the mud because the rain water did not drain away?

There is a simple basic and low cost solution for this common problem;

Step 1: Install a sand base about 5 to 10 cm thick on top of the soil, this layer of sand carries excess water into the drainage pipe (you did remember to install drainage pipes right?).

Step 2: Lay down sheets of Geo- textile on top of the sand. This material allows water to only flow downwards and it prevents roots from passing through it. Once the sheets are laid down you can cut holes in it where you want to plant trees, shrubs, flowers and grassy areas.

Step 3: Finally add a layer of non-porous split or gravel on the top. These small ‘rocks’ come in a multitude of colors and sizes. The layer of split/gravel should can be anywhere from 4- 10 cm thick. The thickness of the layer you lay down depends on the amount of foot or car traffic the area will have. Light foot traffic areas only need 4-5 cm while heavy foot traffic areas and driveways should use 8-10 cm thickness.

So how does this keep the flooding away? The rainwater will pass through the top layer of split/gravel and Geo-textile into the sand, where it will flow to the drainage pipes. The top layer is always free from excess water and it dies out quickly and completely when the sun comes out so fungus and lichen will not develop.