Gravel gardens are a smart, low-maintenance choice for homeowners in Colorado Springs, especially during the hot, dry months of July. But while they’re easier to maintain than traditional lawns, they’re not entirely hands-off. When summer heat intensifies and weeds start creeping in, a bit of attention can go a long way toward keeping your gravel landscape looking sharp, tidy, and welcoming.
If you’ve invested in rock-based landscaping, here’s how to keep it thriving through the peak of summer, without chemicals or costly repairs.
Rake for Looks and Longevity
Even gravel needs grooming. Raking your gravel garden isn’t just about appearances—it helps prevent compacting, maintains drainage, and can discourage weed growth.
Use a bow rake or landscape rake with sturdy tines to evenly redistribute gravel. During July, aim to rake once every two weeks, especially after heavy winds or foot traffic. This helps refresh the surface and expose any organic debris that may have gotten trapped underneath, like pine needles, leaves, or twigs, which can invite unwanted weed growth if left unattended.
You’ll also want to rake in varied patterns to avoid creating visible paths or ruts. This keeps the landscape visually balanced and ensures gravel doesn’t pile up in corners or low spots.
Pro tip for Colorado Springs residents: With our intense sun and occasional afternoon storms, summer gravel tends to shift more than in other seasons. Keeping a regular raking routine helps minimize uneven wear and tear on the landscape fabric underneath.
Maintain Your Weed Barrier
Most gravel gardens are installed with a weed barrier underneath—usually landscape fabric or sheet mulch. Over time, however, even the best barriers need maintenance.
In July, check for areas where the fabric may be exposed, frayed, or torn. This can happen naturally due to UV degradation, especially in Colorado Springs, where sun exposure is strong. Once those gaps appear, weeds can find their way through.
To repair:
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Brush gravel away from the damaged section using your rake or gloved hands.
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Trim a fresh piece of heavy-duty landscape fabric.
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Overlap it by at least 6 inches with the existing fabric to prevent seams from splitting.
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Pin it in place using landscaping staples, then return the gravel on top and re-rake.
Avoid plastic sheeting, which can trap heat and moisture, leading to mildew or unsightly gravel discoloration. Instead, stick with breathable fabrics that suit Colorado’s semi-arid climate.
Control Weeds the Natural Way
Weeds can sneak into even the most carefully layered gravel gardens, especially after a spring full of rain. But by July, you may notice new growth pushing through small gaps or sprouting along the edges. Now is the time to act before they seed and spread.
At Affordable Services Colorado Springs, we recommend natural weed control methods that respect the health of your garden and the local ecosystem:
Hand Pulling
After a monsoon or a deep watering, the soil underneath the gravel becomes more pliable, making weeds easier to remove by hand. Wear gloves and tug weeds from the base to remove the entire root.
Boiling Water or Vinegar Solutions
For spot treatment in stubborn areas, pour boiling water directly onto weeds (avoid nearby ornamentals). A vinegar solution (1 part vinegar, 1 part water) can also be applied in the early morning sun for added effectiveness. Note: This can affect pH levels, so limit use to non-planted areas.
Reinforce with Gravel
Weeds love thin or patchy gravel. Aim to keep your gravel layer at least 2–3 inches deep to block sunlight and discourage germination
Use Natural Pre-Emergents
Corn gluten meal is a safe, non-toxic pre-emergent option that can help reduce weed seeds before they sprout. Apply in early July, just ahead of monsoon season, and reapply as needed every 4–6 weeks.
Refresh Mulch and Decorative Features
Gravel gardens often feature decorative stones, boulders, or xeriscape-friendly accents like driftwood or metal sculptures. July’s dry heat and intense UV exposure can dull or shift these elements, making your garden feel tired or uneven.
This month is the perfect time to:
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Reposition any shifted border rocks or edging stones.
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Rinse decorative stones using a garden hose on a light spray setting.
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Replace faded wood chips or natural mulches around shrubs or succulents to improve color and retain moisture.
If your gravel garden includes drought-resistant plants like lavender, yucca, or ornamental grasses, trim away sun-scorched or dried growth to encourage healthy new leaves. Water deeply in the early morning or late evening once or twice per week, depending on plant type.
Watch for Summer Settling and Drainage Issues
July brings the hottest days of the year to Colorado Springs, often followed by sudden downpours. That combo can cause gravel to settle unevenly or reveal pooling areas.
Walk your landscape and note any spots where:
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Water pools or flows over walkways.
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Gravel has thinned, exposing fabric or soil.
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Sediment is collecting at the base of slopes or retaining walls.
To fix minor drainage issues, redistribute gravel from high to low points using your rake. For larger problems, such as washouts or clogged dry creeks, consider professional regrading or barrier reinforcement.
Keeping your gravel well-aerated and layered also helps water percolate evenly, avoiding standing puddles and mosquito concerns.
Conclusion: Smart Gravel Garden Care All Summer Long
Colorado Springs homeowners know that July can be one of the toughest months for outdoor upkeep. But with a little hands-on attention—raking, barrier care, and natural weed control—your gravel garden can look stunning all summer long.
At Affordable Services Colorado Springs, we specialize in custom gravel landscaping and hardscaping solutions tailored to our region’s unique environment. Whether you need help with landscape fabric repairs, xeriscaping design, or a full gravel refresh, we’re here to help.
Contact us today for a free estimate and keep your landscape looking clean, cool, and Colorado-proud.
