The Ultimate Guide to Ordering Florida Landscape Decorative Stones Online

Landscaping with decorative stones is one of the most effective ways to enhance curb appeal, improve drainage, and create low-maintenance garden beds. For residents and professionals in Florida, sourcing these materials online has become increasingly popular due to convenience, variety, and often competitive pricing. This guide explores everything you need to know about ordering Florida landscape decorative stones online—from selecting the right type to arranging delivery.

Why Choose Decorative Stones for Landscaping in Florida?

Benefits Specific to Florida’s Climate:

• Durability in Heat and Humidity: Unlike organic mulch, decorative stones don’t decompose or retain moisture that fosters mold and pests.
• Low Maintenance: They don’t require regular replacement and reduce weed growth with proper underlayment.
• Aesthetic Versatility: From coastal-themed gardens to tropical retreats, stone colors and textures suit Florida’s diverse styles.
• Drainage Improvement: Especially important in rainy seasons and hurricane-prone areas.

Types of Decorative Stones Commonly Available in Florida

Stone Type	Description	Best Use
River Rock	Smooth, rounded stones in earthy tones.	Drainage areas, dry river beds, edging
Crushed Shell	Natural seashell fragments, popular in coastal areas.	Driveways, walkways, beach-themed landscapes
Pea Gravel	Small, rounded stones, available in various colors.	Walkways, patios, garden paths
Lava Rock	Lightweight, porous rock in red or black.	Mulching, xeriscaping, accent areas
White Marble Chips	Bright white, angular chips for a clean, elegant look.	Modern designs, flower beds, borders
Mexican Beach Pebbles	Smooth, dark stones prized for their polished appearance.	Zen gardens, water features, potted plant toppers

How to Order Online: Step-by-Step Process

1. Measure Your Space

• Calculate square footage: Length × Width
• Determine depth: typically 2–3 inches for ground cover.
• Use a stone calculator to estimate cubic yards or tons.

2. Choose a Reputable Supplier

• Local Florida supplier (faster, cheaper delivery)
• Transparent pricing with volume discounts
• Clear product images and specs
• Delivery options in your ZIP code

Top-rated Florida stone suppliers:

• Pebble Junction (Sanford, FL)
• Oldcastle Coastal
• Big Earth Supply
• Florida Shell & Dirt

3. Select and Customize Your Order

• Choose stone type, size, and color
• Pick format (bulk, pallet, or bagged)
• Add-ons: weed barrier, edging, fabric

4. Arrange Delivery

• Ensure driveway access
• Schedule delivery date and time
• Ask about tailgate spreading if needed

Tips for a Smooth Online Stone Ordering Experience

• Check Reviews: Use Google, Yelp, or Houzz.
• Request Samples: Helps with color matching.
• Understand Return Policies: Especially for bulk orders.
• Mind the Weather: Avoid rainy season delivery (June–Sept).
• Inspect on Arrival: Note quantity and quality with photos.

Installation & Maintenance Tips

• Prepare the Area: Clear weeds, level soil.
• Landscape Fabric: Helps prevent weed growth.
• Install Edging: Keeps stones in place.
• Rinse Stones: Enhances color and shine.
• Top Off Annually: Refreshes sunken or scattered stones.

Cost Breakdown & Budgeting

Expense Category	Typical Range (per cubic yard)
Decorative Stone	$75 – $200
Delivery Fee	$50 – $150+
Landscape Fabric	$0.30 – $0.50 per sq ft
Edging Material	$1 – $4 per linear foot
Installation (if hired)	$50 – $100 per hour

Pro Tip: Look for bulk order discounts over 5–10 yards.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Options

• Recycled Concrete: Ideal for driveways and paths.
• Locally-Sourced River Rock: Reduces shipping footprint.
• Crushed Shell: Naturally replenishing and abundant in Florida.

Conclusion

Ordering landscape decorative stones online in Florida is a convenient and practical approach for both DIY landscapers and professional contractors. With a variety of materials suited to the Sunshine State’s unique environment, you can easily design a beautiful, functional, and long-lasting outdoor space—all from the comfort of your home. Just remember to plan carefully, choose trusted suppliers, and follow best practices for installation.

🪨 Decorative Stones You Can Buy Online

1. River Rocks

• Description: Smooth, naturally rounded stones ideal for pathways, water features, flower beds, and borders.
• Sizes: Small (0.5–1.5 in), Medium (1.5–2.5 in), and Large (2.5–6 in).
• Colors: Gray, tan, ivory, black, and mixed tones.
• Common Uses: Landscaping, drainage, ground cover, and edging.

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2. Polished Pebbles

• Description: Glossy, hand-polished decorative stones perfect for planters, vases, aquariums, and indoor displays.
• Colors: Black, white, red, green, jade, amber, and multicolor.
• Sizes: Ranges from 1/4″ to 3″.
• Common Uses: Tabletop décor, terrariums, centerpieces, and zen gardens.

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3. Lava Rocks

• Description: Porous and lightweight volcanic rocks, known for their texture and ability to retain heat.
• Colors: Black, red, and burgundy.
• Sizes: Crushed, medium (1″), or large chunks.
• Common Uses: Fire pits, barbeques, mulch substitute, and decorative contrast in landscaping.

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4. White Marble Chips

• Description: Elegant, angular white stones that provide a clean, high-end appearance.
• Sizes: Typically around 3/4″.
• Common Uses: Pathways, garden beds, modern landscapes, and accent zones.

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5. Mexican Beach Pebbles

• Description: Smooth, round stones hand-gathered from beaches, naturally weathered by ocean waves.
• Colors: Dark gray, black, tan, and buff.
• Sizes: Small (1–2″), Medium (2–3″), and Large (3–5″).
• Common Uses: Garden borders, fountains, pond areas, and planter toppers.

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6. Glow-in-the-Dark Pebbles

• Description: Decorative pebbles that absorb light during the day and glow at night.
• Colors: Typically blue, green, or aqua.
• Sizes: Small pebbles (1–2 cm).
• Common Uses: Walkways, night-lit garden designs, pots, and fairy gardens.

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7. Engraved Decorative Stones

• Description: Personalized stones with names, quotes, or symbols engraved.
• Colors: Vary depending on stone type.
• Sizes: Handheld to large landscape pieces.
• Common Uses: Memorials, custom garden markers, welcome signs.

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8. Crushed Stone & Gravel

• Description: Rough, angular gravel for driveways and base layers.
• Colors: White, gray, tan, black.
• Sizes: 3/8″ to 1″ or more.
• Common Uses: Walkways, patios, foundation fill, and drainage.

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9. Slate Chips

• Description: Flat, jagged pieces of slate rock that create a sharp, modern texture.
• Colors: Charcoal, blue-gray, red.
• Sizes: 1–2″ to 2–4″.
• Common Uses: Garden accents, top dressing, modern zen-style gardens.

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10. Quartz Decorative Stones

• Description: Semi-transparent stones that shimmer under light, offering a luxurious aesthetic.
• Colors: Clear, rose, amethyst, gold.
• Sizes: 1/2″ to 2″.
• Common Uses: Indoor arrangements, aquariums, upscale landscaping.

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🌴 How to Properly Install Landscaping Stones in Florida

Installing landscaping stones is a great way to enhance the look of your yard while minimizing maintenance and maximizing durability—especially in Florida’s unique subtropical climate. Whether you’re creating a stone path, edging a flower bed, or replacing mulch with rock for a cleaner aesthetic, here’s a detailed guide to doing it right the first time.

✅ Why Landscaping Stones Work Well in Florida

• They don’t decompose like mulch.
• They resist erosion better.
• They help control weeds.
• They reduce maintenance over time.
• They improve drainage in sandy soils.

🛠️ Tools & Materials You’ll Need

• Landscaping stones (pea gravel, river rock, marble chips, etc.)
• Weed barrier fabric (UV-stabilized)
• Shovel or edger
• Rake and steel garden hoe
• Wheelbarrow
• Landscape edging (metal, plastic, or concrete)
• Landscape fabric pins
• Crushed limestone base or paver base (for walkways)
• Gloves & safety glasses

🌿 Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1. Plan Your Layout

Sketch out the area and consider sun exposure, drainage patterns, and how the area will be used. Use garden hoses, chalk, or stakes and string to mark it out.

2. Remove Grass and Debris

Dig out grass, weeds, and old mulch from the marked area. Aim for a depth of 2–4 inches. For larger areas, a sod cutter will make things easier.

3. Grade and Level the Area

Use a rake or hoe to level the soil and create a slight slope away from buildings to prevent water pooling. Compact the soil for walkways.

4. Install Landscape Edging

Install edging around the area to hold stones in place. This is essential in Florida’s rainy climate.

• Dig a trench and place the edging flush with the ground.
• Secure with stakes or rebar.

5. Lay a Weed Barrier

Lay UV-resistant landscape fabric to block weed growth.

• Overlap fabric edges by 6–8 inches.
• Pin down with fabric pins every 2–3 feet.

6. (Optional) Add a Base Layer

For walkways, add 1–2 inches of crushed limestone or paver base. This stabilizes the surface and improves drainage.

7. Spread the Landscaping Stones

Use a wheelbarrow and shovel to distribute stones evenly to a depth of 2–3 inches. Rake to smooth out the surface.

8. Final Touches

Hose down the stones to remove dust. Re-rake if necessary and admire your finished look!

🧼 Maintenance Tips for Florida Yards

• Check for weeds and treat spot areas as needed.
• Rake every few months to keep it level.
• Top off stones yearly as needed.

💡 Popular Landscaping Stones in Florida

• White Marble Chips: Reflect heat and look clean.
• River Rock: Smooth and natural for tropical gardens.
• Pea Gravel: Great for walkways and patios.
• Crushed Shell or Coquina: Eco-friendly and coastal looking.

🏁 Final Thoughts

Installing landscaping stones in Florida is a smart investment for beauty, durability, and low maintenance. With proper grading, edging, and weed protection, your yard will stay beautiful through the heat, humidity, and rain Florida is known for.

Thinking about upgrading your yard? Let this guide be your blueprint for success.