Guide to garden stones – pebbles, gravel and cobbles

Stones are one of the easiest ways to give the garden an attractive, low-maintenance look. But when it comes to choosing, you quickly come across many different sizes and types: small pebbles, pea gravel, larger pebbles, cobbles, hand stones and chippings. So what is the difference – and which stones should you choose for your project?

In this guide you get an overview of the most common types of stone, their sizes, what they are suited for, and how thick a layer you should lay.

Guide to garden stones - pebbles, gravel and cobbles - maxibag.dk

The size is in the name

Stones are sold in sizes, also called fractions. The figures in millimetres indicate how small and large the stones in the mix are. Here are the most common sizes:

Small pebbles: 4-8 mm
Pea gravel: 8-16 mm
Medium pebbles: 16-32 mm
Cobbles: approx. 32-64 mm
Hand stones and large stones: from approx. 60 mm and upwards

These are round, washed stones. Chippings, on the other hand, are crushed stones with sharp edges – e.g. granite chippings.

Small pebbles – for paths and small beds

Pebbles 4-8 mm are small, round stones that are comfortable to walk on and pack well, even in a thin layer. They are often used on garden paths, around patios and in smaller beds and pots. Because the stones are small, they give an even and calm surface.

Layer depth: approx. 4-5 cm on paths and in beds.

Pea gravel and medium pebbles – for beds and decorative areas

Pebbles 8-16 mm are slightly larger and a popular choice for beds, gravel gardens and areas along the house. Pebbles 16-32 mm are larger still and give a more striking look. They move less than small stones and are good for larger beds, along foundations and around shrubs.

Layer depth: 5-7 cm for both sizes.

Cobbles and large stones – for striking areas

Cobbles are large, round stones that give a natural and exclusive look. They are used in large beds, gravel gardens, along streams and around plants where you want contrast. Even larger large stones and cobble stones are used as focal points, for edging and to create rock gardens with a natural look.

Layer depth: 7-10 cm for cobbles, so the soil cannot be seen between the stones.

Chippings – for driveways and courtyards

Round stones roll underfoot and under car tyres. If the area is to be used as a driveway, parking area or courtyard, crushed stones are therefore a better choice. Granite chippings have sharp edges that lock together, so the surface becomes firm and stable. Read more in our guide to granite chippings.

Choose colour and style

As well as size, colour has a big impact on the overall look:

Nature stones have warm shades of brown, red and grey and suit most gardens.
White stones give a light, modern look and stand out beautifully against green plants and dark façades.
Beach stones are round and smooth and give a natural look reminiscent of the beach.
North Sea pebbles have the classic mixed colours of the North Sea.

How to lay stones in the garden

Remove grass and weeds: Dig off the top layer so the stones sit level with edges and paving.
Level and compact: If the area is to be walked on, you can lay a sub-base of road base under the stones.
Lay weed barrier: A weed barrier keeps weeds down and prevents the stones from sinking into the soil. Overlap the fabric by 10-20 cm at the joints.
Spread the stones: Spread the stones evenly at the recommended layer depth.

If the stones are to be used for drainage, e.g. in a soakaway or around a foundation, choose drainage stones instead.

How many stones do I need?

Multiply the area by the layer depth in metres. For example, a bed of 8 m² with 5 cm of 16-32 mm pebbles needs 8 × 0.05 = 0.4 m³ = 400 litres. See more examples in our guide How much gravel, sand and soil do I need?, or use our quantity calculator.