When most people think of shells, they picture beautiful beaches and tropical islands, but there is more to shells than just their aesthetic appeal. In fact, shells are one of the most efficient and aesthetically pleasing materials for landscaping projects. Shells can be used in a variety of ways in landscaping projects, from walkways to flower beds.
Here are five different ways to use crushed shells in your next landscaping project
1. Use crushed shells as mulch
Crushed shells make excellent mulch due to their ability to suppress weeds, keep the soil cool and retain moisture. By introducing crucial nutrients into the surrounding area they can also help to improve the structure and fertility of the soil.
2. Use crushed shells in pathways
If you are looking for a unique and eco-friendly way to create pathways in your garden, consider using crushed shells. The shells will not only add color and texture to your garden, but they will also help to keep your feet clean and cool in the summer months. Shells are safe to use in a landscape and are all-natural, which ensures that your landscaping remains organic and earth-friendly as well.
3. Use crushed shells in flower beds
Another great way to use crushed shells in your landscaping is by incorporating them into flower beds. The shells will help to stabilize the soil and they will also add a bit of color and texture to your garden.
Shells are a great option to use for flower beds because they help to improve soil drainage and provide perfect bedding for flowers that help improve their lifespan and their aesthetic touch. When used in conjunction with other soil amendments, shells can help to create a fertile growing environment for your plants.
4. Use crushed shells as a topdressing for lawns
If you are looking for a way to improve the appearance of your lawn, consider using crushed shells as a top dressing. The shells will help to level out any bumps or unevenness in your lawn, and they will also help to reduce erosion.
Additionally, the shells can act as a great deterrent for pests that may harm the health and longevity of the lawn. Just as in flower beds, it also helps to improve the health of the soil of lawns, which many other top dressings cannot offer due to their unnatural sourcing.
5. Use crushed shells in planters
Finally, another great way to use crushed shells in or around your landscaping is by incorporating them into planters. The shells will help to keep the soil moist and they will also add a bit of color and texture to your planters. Additionally, crushed shells can also help to suppress weed growth and provide some insulation against extreme temperatures.
How To Find Crushed Shell Aggregate That is Right For Your Needs
When trying to determine the right crushed shell aggregate for your landscaping project, it is important to consider the unique needs of the specific project. Different projects will require different types and sizes of crushed shells; research the appropriate shell use in your design project before purchasing any aggregate.
Examples of specific use include: if you plan to use crushed shells for a walkway or driveway, you will need a harder, more durable aggregate than if you are using them as a decorative border around a flower bed.
Shell use in an area with harsh winters, will require a crushed shell product that can withstand cold weather conditions. Conversely, landscaping related projects in a warm climate need a crushed shell aggregate that can resist heat and humidity.
One of the most important factors to consider is the size of the aggregate shell you intend to use. The size of the aggregate is important for two reasons: first, different-sized aggregates create different textures; and second, different-sized aggregates can be used for different purposes.
Larger aggregates are good for driveways and walkways, while smaller aggregates can be used for borders and decorative accents.
Finding the Right Crushed Shell Aggregate With Barclay Earth Depot
If you are not sure where to start, ask for recommendations from friends and family members who have used crushed shells in their landscaping projects. They may have suggestions on local suppliers or specific types of crushed shells that would work well for your project.
A team of aggregate experts can help you find the right shell aggregate for your specific landscaping needs. Whether you are looking for decorative gravel to brighten up your garden beds, or a durable material to use in a driveway or patio, Barclay Earth Depot can recommend a type of crushed shell that will work perfectly for your application.
For more information on how we can assist you in utilizing shell aggregate properly, contact our team of experts today at 941-933-4448.