Thinking about adding a pathway to your garden? The steps to installing a garden pathway are in more ways than one, the same: lay your path, measure the length, ensure no irrigation utilities lie in the area, remove existing sod and soil, compact the soil, place a border, lay out the design pattern, so on and so forth.

But what if you’ve decided to break free from the norm and wanted something just a teeny bit unconventional for your pathway? Don’t fret, we’ve got you covered!

Stepping Stone Pathway

An easy and budget-friendly way to install a garden pathway is through stepping-stone paths. Not only is it inexpensive, it’s also the fastest to build because very little digging is involved.

The most ideal stones to use are those that measure 18 inches across and are about 2 inches thick, they must be flat of course. Stepping stone pathway is affordable because your stone will cover a large area, which means you don’t have to buy too many except if you’re building a long pathway.

To build a stepping-stone path, you will have to arrange them with a distance of 20 – 25” in between (that’s from one stone’s centre to another). Set them in place, then using a rock saw or spade cut around the edges. Lift the stones and dig out the grass and soil, it’s up to you how deep you would want to set them. Make levelling fast and easy by spreading at least ½ – 1” thick of sand under the stones.

Don’t forget to set your stones 1” above soil level. This will give you a dry place to step into while you run a lawn mower over your path.

One key advantage to building a stone pathway is you can customize to your own liking. Hand-made stepping stones for instance, add a personal touch to your garden. Mosaic patterns are also a great option but you have to be careful as they become slippery when wet.

Mulch and Gravel Pathway

Create an informal and easy-to-maintain pathway with mulch and gravel. These two are most probably the cheapest path materials you can find and purchase.

To build mulch and gravel paths, start by removing grass on the area. You will need a gas-powered cutter for long paths while for short paths, a garden spade will do. Set the edging at least 1 inch above the fill material. Using a space stick, cut to the width of the path. This will serve as your guide when you set the border.

Next, cover the soil with landscape fabric to prevent the fill material from mixing with the soil. This also helps to deter the weeds. If you want a firm mulch and gravel pathway, use crushed stone and compress it after leveling.

Other Ways to Create a Garden Pathway

There are yet other ways to build you garden pathway using materials that provide both function and aesthetics.If you want a formal and clean-looking pathway, mortared paths come highly recommended. This material is quite expensive but requires minimal maintenance if designed and built properly. If you desire a pathway that can withstand heavy use, then dry-laid pavers is perfect for you. For a comfortable and cozy looking garden path, a turf pathway is very ideal. This kind of pathway provides the most comfortable walking surface but needs constant maintenance as well ample space and sunlight.