Garden paths

Creating a path or walkway for your lawn, garden, or flowerbed is an excellent way to give a sense of beauty and style to your outdoor environment. There are many options to choose from, so you're certain to find one that fits your style and needs. Below are just a few of those many options.

• Basic Brick Pathway – bricks are extremely versatile when it comes to creating paths and walkways. Bricks allow you to create almost any shape you want for you path, whether it's straight and narrow or a meandering or winding path. Additionally, bricks come in many designs and patterns. You also have your choice of whether you want your path set in sand or concrete. Many people choose concrete because it gives a bit when walked upon, creating a more rustic feel.

• Rock-edged Gravel Path – if this is the route you want to take, so to speak, it is recommended that you first lay down a porous weed mat. Some might suggest a black plastic lining, but these will inevitably collect water. You don't want to create a muddy stream after a rain or an ice luge during the winter. Simply use large stones for edging, or pavers, and as many bags of gravel as necessary, and you're on your way to a beautiful, gravel path.

• Concrete Paver Walkway – concrete pavers come in a wide variety of patterns and colors. They are relatively inexpensive and fairly easy to install. You'll first need to measure a path that will be about three feet wide, and also be sure that the path is at least a few feet away from hedges, bushes, and trees. Then install wooden edging along the length of the pathway. Create a smooth sand base inside the wooden edging and then fit your concrete pavers into place.

• Crushed Stone Path – a crushed stone path is another great option for your garden pathway. This is another easy, inexpensive method that blends in with almost any landscape. Flexible edging will allow for a more flowing, curvy path without having to worry about keeping the materials in place. A crush stoned path can last for generations if it is properly replenished as needed every few years. Many people shape their paths with a garden hose, since this method lends itself to a more free flowing design. Make your path about three feet wide so that two people can walk side by side on it comfortably. Use pressure-treated, precut log sections as for edging.

• Flagstone Paths – a flagstone path is one of the loveliest ways spruce up your garden. A flagstone path will fit perfectly in almost any landscape design. The variety of rock formations creates a nice counterbalance to overly geometric spaces. Your biggest obstacle will be figuring out how much stone you need for your path. Your best bet is to figure out how much square footage your path will take up and give this number to your stone dealer.

• Loose Fill Paths – loose fill pathways are a great alternative to concrete or other rock materials. Soft materials such as bark, mulch, wood, or even crushed seashells can make beautiful pathways for your garden. Keep in mind that purchasing in bulk is much less expensive than buying by the bag. You will also need adequate edging to protect your pathway from weeds. Simply smooth out your chosen material with a rake or shovel.

• Platform Walkway – a platform walkway is a great way to eliminate any issues with water, weeds, or edging. A platform walkway is constructed in the same manner as a deck and is extremely affordable.