Does Gravel Wash Away?

Which Gravel Washes Away? Gravel can wash away during heavy rains, but proper installation and material selection greatly reduce this risk. Smaller, lighter gravel (like pea gravel) is more prone to washing than larger, heavier stone (like river rock or #57 gravel). Angular crushed stone interlocks and resists movement better than rounded stones. How to Prevent Washout To prevent gravel from washing away: Ensure proper grading so water flows where you want it — not across your gravel surface Install edging along all borders For driveways, create a crown (slight hump in the center) so water drains to the sides Slopes and Drainage On slopes, use crushed stone rather than rounded gravel, and consider installing a geogrid (honeycomb-shaped stabilizer) underneath. French drains or swales can redirect water before it reaches your gravel areas. If erosion is recurring, the underlying issue is usually poor drainage design rather than the gravel itself. Addressing water flow patterns is more effective than simply adding more gravel.

Black Shredded Mulch vs Pea Gravel

Side-by-side comparison of Black Shredded Mulch and Pea Gravel to help you choose the right gravel for your project.

Overview

Black Shredded Mulch

Shredded hardwood mulch dyed black for a bold, modern landscape look. Rich black color makes green plants and colorful flowers stand out. Holds its color longer than brown mulch and provides the same moisture retention, weed suppression, and soil temperature regulation benefits.

Pea Gravel

Small, rounded stones about 3/8 inch in diameter. Smooth texture and available in natural earth tones. Pea gravel is one of the most popular decorative gravels for residential projects thanks to its comfortable feel underfoot and attractive appearance.

Common Uses

Black Shredded Mulch

✓ Landscape beds
✓ Tree rings
✓ Garden borders
✓ Foundation plantings
✓ Commercial landscaping
✓ Contrast beds

Pea Gravel

✓ Patios
✓ Walkways
✓ Playgrounds
✓ Drainage
✓ Landscaping beds
✓ Garden paths

Pros & Cons

Black Shredded Mulch

+ Bold black color creates striking contrast with plants
+ Holds color longer than natural brown mulch
+ Retains soil moisture reducing watering
+ Suppresses weed growth naturally
+ Insulates soil temperature

− Dye can temporarily stain hands, concrete, and clothing
− Needs replenishing every 1-2 years as it decomposes
− Can attract termites if placed against structures
− Fades to dark gray over time
− Slightly more expensive than undyed mulch

Pea Gravel

+ Affordable and widely available
+ Smooth and comfortable underfoot
+ Excellent drainage
+ Attractive natural colors
+ Easy to spread and install

− Shifts and migrates easily
− Not ideal for driveways (poor compaction)
− Requires edging to stay contained
− Can be tracked indoors
− Difficult to shovel snow from

Cost Comparison

Measure	Black Shredded Mulch	Pea Gravel
Per ton	$25 – $45	$25 – $50
Per cubic yard	$30 – $50	$30 – $60

Sizes & Colors

Black Shredded Mulch

Shredded strips of bark and wood, typically 1-4 inches long, dyed with carbon-based black colorant. The dye is non-toxic and safe for plants and pets. Double-shredded black mulch mats together better and resists displacement.

Pea Gravel

Pea gravel ranges from 1/4 to 3/8 inch in diameter. It comes in natural earth tones including tan, brown, white, gray, and rust. Some suppliers offer mixed-color blends. The stones are naturally rounded and smooth from water erosion.

Published February 11, 2026

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