The Use of Stepping Stones In High Traffic Areas

Sometimes there are areas of a homeowner’s lawn that receive so much foot traffic and become so compacted that it may be better to install stepping stones than to bear the frustration of trying to grow quality turf in those areas.

Sometimes these high traffic areas are pathways to the garage or shed. Sometimes these pathways provide a shortcut to a car parked in the driveway or just lead to a common destination in your yard, like a flower or vegetable garden. When stepping stones are placed into a frequented pathway, you will have fewer concerns about compaction and the wearing of an unsightly path through your turf.

It is now common to find stepping stones in garden centers in a wide variety of shapes, colors and materials. Whatever type of stepping stones you decide to go with, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. First and foremost, you want to avoid stepping stones that may become slippery when wet. Another consideration is to avoid stepping stones that may have a relief (or raised pattern) if you want to use them along a path that will frequently get shoveled in the winter. When selecting stepping stones look for stones that will be easy to install, easy to maintain, and will last for many years.

When installing stepping stones, always be sure that the top of the stepping stone is level with the top of the soil. Stepping stones with top surfaces that are above the soil level not only become a tripping hazard, but can make mowing difficult and possibly even dangerous. An old butter knife can come in handy when recessing a stepping stone. By running the butter knife along the raised edge of the stone and pushing down as deep as your stepping stone is thick, you will be left with a tight outline of the stone. Then it is just a matter of removing all of soil inside the pattern you have cut. So that your stepping stone does not wobble, your finished hole should have a very flat bottom. Once this hole is finished, it is just a matter of dropping the stone in.

So the next time you’re considering what to do about those worn pathways through your lawn, consider installing stepping stones.

NEXT TIME: Your Lawn Loves A Good Lather