Enhance your landscaping with rock and stone features. Use the following decorative stone suggestions in this blog to improve your property's curb appeal.

One way to improve the looks of your yard or garden is with stone walls and arches. You may also choose retaining walls, handcrafted from stone, to make a driveway more level or an area more accessible. Ornamental arches may serve as an entry to a garden or other feature.

Resurface your driveways with stone for a rustic look that is much easier on your vehicles than aggregate or gravel. Stone also keeps maintenance at a minimum, providing a smooth surface and aesthetic effect that will enhance the appearance of your overall property.

• Providing edging around your beds to separate plants and plots.
• Making raised beds from stone, similarly to how you would construct a brick wall, to keep gardens up and off the ground.
• Making fixed planters in the yard to fill with soil and seedlings for a permanent feature that brings color to the property.

Other ways to use stone that is both attractive and practical include patios, paths and walkways. Use stone pavers to create a meandering path through your yard and garden, or use pavers sparingly to create a stepping-stone effect from one area of the property to another. Stone paths are easy to clean; simply give the stone a rinse from time to time with your garden hose, when you are out watering the yard or grass.

Stone is an excellent choice for surfacing fireplaces and fire pits — both inside and out! Outdoor areas are easier to clean and care for when they are made of natural, weather-resistant materials, like stone. Plus, the visual results meld with the natural surroundings to create a beautiful and smooth feature in your yard.

Stone can also be used around the water features, ponds and pools on your property. Use stone to cover the area around your home's swimming pool for a smooth, resilient surface. Create a pond border from stone to accentuate the shape and foliage surrounding it. Create unique waterfalls or fountains from distinctive river rocks, boulders or stone slabs in your garden; the water will splash and create a unique pattern that is soothing to watch.

If you want to make a dramatic difference in your home's curb appeal, talk with your stone contractor about stone facades for your house, garage or other structure. The look is natural yet modern and fresh.