Landscape Materials

Topsoil is the upper layer of soil, typically rich in nutrients and organic matter, making it ideal for general landscaping, filling low spots, and leveling areas. Some projects may also require sand mixed with topsoil to improve drainage and stability in certain soil conditions.

Garden soil, on the other hand, is specially formulated for plant growth and often includes added compost, fertilizers, and organic amendments to enhance aeration, drainage, and nutrient availability. If you’re looking for guidance on choosing the right soil blend, check out our insights on organic garden soil tips.

Mulch should typically be replaced every year to maintain its effectiveness in retaining moisture, suppressing weeds, and improving the appearance of your landscaping. Over time, mulch breaks down, enriching the soil while continuing to support plant health.

Some landscapers prefer bark mulch as a durable option that provides long-lasting moisture retention and weed suppression. It’s also a good idea to top it up in areas where it has worn away or thinned out. Learn more about how mulch benefits your landscape in what does mulch do.

Pavers and retaining wall blocks are suitable materials for constructing retaining walls. These materials provide the necessary support and durability for retaining structures. They are also versatile in design, allowing aesthetic customization to complement any landscape. Flagstone is another versatile choice, especially for patios and walkways, due to its natural, rustic look that blends well with various landscape styles.

For basic landscaping, you will need essential tools such as a shovel, sod knife, rake, pruning shears, cover tape and a garden hose. Wheelbarrows and lawnmowers are also great additions to make your work more efficient and manageable. Depending on your project, tools like edgers, trowels, and a soil tester can help with precision and better results. Investing in durable gloves and protective gear is also important to ensure safety while working outdoors.

For landscape design, the choice of edging depends on the style and function you need. Durable materials like stone or concrete provide a clean and permanent border, while plastic or metal edging offers flexibility and easy installation. Select an edging material that complements your overall design and fits your budget.

Good soil is the foundation of a healthy landscape. Taking the right steps before planting helps improve fertility, drainage, and plant growth while preventing common issues like poor root development or waterlogging.

• Clear the area by removing weeds, rocks, and debris to prevent unwanted growth that competes with plants.
• Mix in compost or soil amendments to add nutrients, improve structure, and help retain moisture.
• Loosen the soil to improve airflow and drainage, allowing roots to grow deeper and stronger.
• Use organic matter like compost or mulch to boost soil fertility and promote long-term plant health.

For better results, check out healthy veggies start with organic compost for tips on maximizing soil quality. Prepping your soil the right way makes it easier for plants to establish, thrive, and stay healthy in the long run.

You must measure the length and width of the area you want to cover and then multiply these to find the square footage. Decide on the depth of material, typically 2–3 inches for mulch or topsoil, and use this to calculate the volume required. Some landscaping projects may also require sand as a base layer for pavers or leveling soil, as it helps with proper drainage and stability.

Ordering slightly more than calculated ensures you have enough to cover any uneven spots. By planning accurately, you’ll avoid running short and can complete your project smoothly.

Materials such as mulches, landscape fabrics, and erosion control products effectively conserve water in landscaping. Mulches help retain soil moisture and reduce evaporation, while landscape fabrics and erosion control products minimize water runoff and soil erosion.

Moss is another natural ground cover that helps retain moisture and prevent soil erosion, especially in shaded areas where traditional plants may struggle. These materials are available in the landscape supplies section of Rivendell Distribution.

It is essential to keep the soil covered to prevent weed growth in landscaping. Applying a thick layer of mulch, about 1 to 3 inches deep, annually in the spring or fall can effectively block weed seeds from taking root. This simple practice helps maintain a clean and weed-free garden.

Start by clearing the area of weeds and debris, and ensure the ground is level. Measure and cut the fabric to fit the space, leaving some overlap where necessary. Lay the fabric down and secure it firmly with landscape pins or stakes placed every few feet.

Consider the gravel's purpose, such as pathways, driveways, or drainage. The size and texture of the gravel will also affect its appearance and functionality, so select one that complements your design needs. Additionally, ensure the gravel suits the local climate and soil conditions.

For a gravel driveway, it’s important to lay a deep enough layer to ensure stability and proper drainage. Start with a solid base layer of compacted gravel, followed by a top layer for a smooth finish. This approach provides durability and helps prevent shifting over time.

It depends on the climate, but spring and early fall are generally ideal due to milder temperatures and better conditions for plant growth. Spring allows planting and establishing greenery before the summer heat, while early fall gives plants time to settle before winter. 

To reduce landscaping costs, focus on the most important projects and decide on budget-friendly materials that offer good value. You can save on labor by handling tasks like planting or mulching yourself. Shopping for supplies in bulk can further help lower expenses.

Yes, our team can assist you in calculating the quantities needed for your specific project based on the required area and type of materials. Please contact us with your project details; we’ll gladly help. Additionally, we can recommend the best materials for your needs to ensure your project’s success.

We aim to give you easy access to the best landscaping supplies, whether you're working on your yard, lawn, or business. With our guidance, you can create a beautiful outdoor space, all while ensuring you have the proper permission for any necessary installations.

We offer bulk pricing for landscaping materials and can arrange delivery using our local trucks or a semi for large orders. Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on the order's size, distance, and location, with a two-pallet minimum for single deliveries. Large quantities of materials like mulch, gravel, and soil are typically stocked at a supply yard for easy pickup or delivery, making it more convenient for bulk purchases.

For more details on bulk orders and delivery options, please contact our customer service team; we’ll gladly assist you.

Yes, we provide various landscape supplies, including soil, mulch, plants, and hardscape materials. You can explore our selection to find the products that best suit your project needs. We aim to support contractors with high-quality materials for residential and commercial landscaping projects.

Our landscape supply store, Rivendell Distribution, is based in Glenwood Springs, CO. While we operate primarily online, you can order directly through our website for convenient shopping. We offer a wide selection of landscaping materials for residential, commercial, and large-scale projects.

If you have any questions or need assistance, our customer service team is always ready to help!

Delivery rates for landscape materials depend on your order size and location. We use our delivery truck for larger local orders, including sod with Donkey forklift unloading. Rates are calculated based on order total and distance, with a two-pallet minimum for delivery. 

Shipping costs are determined at checkout, so please ensure your address is correct. Contact us for specific delivery quotes based on your order.

We provide delivery services for our landscape materials. You can order through our website, and we will ship the products directly to your preferred location. For local customers, we also provide pickup options at our facility. 

We accept various payment methods for your convenience, including major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover), debit cards, and online payment options like PayPal. Payments are processed securely through our online system. For any special payment arrangements or questions, feel free to contact us directly, and we'll be happy to assist.

We accept returns of unused supplies within 30 days of purchase, as long as they are in their original condition and packaging. To start a return, you can contact our customer service team for a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. Please note that you are responsible for return shipping costs; some items may have a restocking fee.