How to Maintain and Clean Decorative Landscape Rocks?

If you have decorative landscaping stones in your garden or yard, you know that their beauty can enhance your outdoor space's overall look and feel. However, as with anything exposed to the elements, landscape rocks can accumulate dirt, debris, and even algae, detracting from their aesthetic appeal.

Regular cleaning keeps landscape rocks looking fresh and helps them last longer. In this post, we'll provide tips and tricks on cleaning landscaping rock, so you can keep your outdoor space looking as gorgeous as the day you installed it. You’ll never need to wonder how to clean landscape stones again!

Quick Reference Chart

Finding the best way to clean landscape rocks depends on the type of stone you're working with. Each material has unique characteristics that influence the ideal cleaning approach. Use this chart to determine the most effective method for your landscape stones.

Tools & Materials Needed

Before you start cleaning any landscape rocks, gather these essential tools and materials to make the job easier and more effective:

Essential tools:

• Garden hose with adjustable nozzle
• Stiff-bristle brush or broom
• Soft-bristle brush (for delicate surfaces)
• Bucket
• Protective gloves
• Rake or leaf blower
• Small brush or old toothbrush (for crevices)

Cleaning solutions:

• Mild dish soap and water (general purpose)
• White vinegar and water (1:1 ratio for eco-friendly ways to clean landscape rocks)
• Baking soda paste (for stubborn stains)
• Hydrogen peroxide (for whitening)
• Bleach solution (use cautiously: 1 part bleach to 10 parts water)

How to Clean Large Landscape Rocks

Landscape boulders can add a natural, stunning element to your yard. However, over time, they can become dirty and unsightly. Cleaning large landscape rocks can feel like a daunting task, but with the right tools and procedures, you can easily maintain your natural stone landscaping.

When learning how to clean dirty landscape rocks, here are the best practices to follow:

1. Remove dirt and debris: Use a brush, rake, or broom to remove any debris or loose dirt from the rock surface. You can also use a leaf blower to blow away leaves or any other small debris.
2. Rinse off the rocks: Using a garden hose when cleaning landscape stones, gently rinse off the rocks. Start at the top and work your way down so the debris flows away from the clean areas.
3. Scrub the rocks: For tough stains or algae growth, use a stiff-bristle brush or pressure washer to clean the rocks. Be cautious when using a pressure washer to avoid damaging the rocks. Wearing gloves and safety goggles when using a pressure washer is important.
4. Clean crevices and hard-to-reach areas: Use a small bristle brush or a toothbrush to clean the crevices and hard-to-reach areas of the large landscape rocks. You can use warm water and vinegar solution for a deeper clean of these areas.
5. Rinse the rocks again: After scrubbing, rinse the rocks with a hose to remove any remaining dirt or cleaning solution.
6. Allow the rocks to dry: If you have the time, allow the rocks to air dry. If you need to use the space quickly, use a leaf blower or a dry towel to remove any remaining moisture.

How to Clean White Landscape Rocks

White landscape stones are popular for gardens and yards, providing a clean and polished look. And understanding how to clean exterior stones like white landscape stones can seem a little tricky, so here’s what to do:

1. Prepare the area and remove loose debris: Start by removing any debris or obstacles near the white landscape stones, such as furniture or garden decorations. Use a rake or leaf blower to clear away leaves, twigs, and other loose debris from the white landscape stones.
2. Rinse the stones: Gently rinse the white landscape stones using a garden hose or pressure washer, starting from the top and working your way down.
3. Apply cleaning solution: Mix a gentle detergent with water in a bucket to create a mild cleaning solution. Dip a stiff-bristle brush into the solution and scrub the white landscape stones.
4. Use a bleach solution for stubborn stains: If your white landscape stones have stubborn stains, mix one part bleach with ten parts water in a separate bucket. Carefully apply the bleach solution to the stained areas using the stiff-bristle brush. Let the solution sit for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
5. Rinse and dry: After scrubbing the stones, rinse them again with the garden hose or pressure washer to remove any remaining dirt and cleaning solution. Allow the white landscape stones to air dry completely to prevent water spots and ensure a polished look.

Pro tip: To keep white landscape stones looking brilliant year-round without using bleach, mix one part 3 percent hydrogen peroxide with two parts water and apply to stained areas. For preventative maintenance, apply a stone sealer formulated for white stones every 1-2 years.

How to Clean River Rocks

Like any other landscaping element, river rocks and stone aggregates, in general, require occasional cleaning to maintain their pristine appearance. Let's explore how to clean river rock landscaping, whether it's part of a decorative rock wall, used as stone pavers, or simply placed around your garden.

1. Prepare the area: Before you begin cleaning, prepare the area around the river rocks. This may include removing any furniture, decorations, or other items that might obstruct your cleaning process. To remove surface dirt and any leaves that have accumulated around the rocks, use a rake or leaf blower.
2. Rinse the rocks: Use a garden hose or pressure washer to rinse off the rocks. If using a pressure washer, be sure to wear gloves and safety goggles for protection. Start at the top of the area and work your way down, allowing the water to flow away from the clean sections.
3. Scrub the rocks: Create a mild cleaning solution by mixing water and a gentle detergent in a bucket. Dip a stiff-bristle brush or broom into the solution and scrub the rocks, focusing on any areas with visible stains or algae growth. For stubborn stains, use a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar. Be sure to scrub every surface of the rocks to ensure a comprehensive clean.
4. Clean crevices and hard-to-reach areas: River rocks often have small crevices and indentations that can trap dirt and debris. To clean these areas, use a small brush or toothbrush dipped in your cleaning solution. Gently scrub the crevices, removing any dirt or buildup that may be present.
5. Rinse the rocks again: Use your garden hose and any power-washing tool to rinse the rocks again. Be sure to rinse thoroughly, as any remaining detergent can cause a slippery surface and harm your plants.
6. Allow the rocks to dry: Give your rocks time to air dry — the drying process will help prevent water damage to the structure. If you're in a hurry, you can use a leaf blower or a dry towel to remove excess moisture from the rocks.
7. Consider sealing your rocks: A quality stone sealer can prevent algae growth and make future cleaning easier. Choose a water-based sealer safe for aquatic life if your rocks are near ponds or water features.

How to Clean Rock Walls and Stone Pavers

Unlike the above types of stones, rock walls and stone pavers must be cleaned carefully to protect their fixed structures and masonry.

1. Remove loose debris: For pavers, use a stiff-bristled broom or a leaf blower to clear the area thoroughly. For decorative rock walls, gently use a soft-bristled brush to avoid damaging delicate surfaces or mortar joints.
2. Rinse: Start from the top and work downward on walls, or from one side to the other on pavers. For rock walls, use low pressure to avoid damaging mortar. Pavers can handle more force, but avoid pooling water in joints.
3. Apply a mild cleaning solution: Only use a white vinegar solution (equal parts vinegar and water) for stubborn stains on stone pavers or natural stone walls, but avoid vinegar on delicate or manufactured rock walls as it can erode finishes.
4. Clean crevices: Use a toothbrush or small brush for tight spaces. Be careful to protect masonry while removing algae, moss, and stubborn dirt buildup.
5. Rinse and dry completely: Use low-pressure water on walls and medium-pressure on pavers if needed. Allow everything to dry — this prevents mold/mildew and prepares the surface if you plan to apply a sealer afterward for extra protection.

The Advantages of Maintaining Decorative Landscape Rocks

Stone landscape maintenance isn't just about aesthetics — it's an investment in your property's value and functionality. Cleaning and caring for your decorative stones offers numerous benefits that make the effort worthwhile:

• Gives your outdoor space an attractive look: Keeping your decorative stone landscaping clean, free from debris, and well-maintained adds an aesthetic value that beautifies your outdoor area, making it more appealing and attractive.
• Prevents invasive weeds: Cleaning landscape rock effectively reduces weed growth in your garden or yard. This will save you time and effort since you won't have to pull weeds as frequently.
• Improves drainage: Decorative landscape rocks play an essential role in your outdoor drainage, but debris and dirt can clog the rocks and impede drainage. Cleaning landscape rocks will ensure proper drainage and prevent water from building up in unwanted areas.
• Increases the longevity of your landscaping: Cleaning your decorative landscape rock regularly can help extend its lifespan, which will save you money on costly repairs or replacements.
• Enhances property value: Well-maintained landscape features can increase your home's curb appeal and market value by up to 5-12 percent.

How to Maintain Rock Landscaping

When it comes to how to maintain rock landscaping, one important aspect is keeping weeds, leaves, and debris away from the garden gravel. Not only can these unwanted items make your garden look unkempt, but they can also attract pests and compromise the health of your plants.

Here's what to do:

• Spend time on maintenance: Regular maintenance is the key to keeping debris at bay. Make it a habit to regularly inspect and clean your garden gravel. It's also a great way to get leaves out of rocks.
• Invest in garden tools: A good pair of gloves, a rake, and a leaf blower can make the task of cleaning debris from garden gravel much easier and faster.
• Use weed barriers: Consider using a weed barrier or landscape fabric underneath the garden gravel to prevent weed growth. Landscape fabric can make a big difference.
• Apply a safe weed killer: If weeds appear, use a safe weed killer to prevent them from taking over your garden gravel.
• Install gutter guards: Install gutter guards to prevent leaves and other debris from falling into the garden gravel from nearby trees or shrubs.
• Use organic mulch: Consider using organic mulch around your plants to prevent weed growth and keep the garden gravel clean.
• Make plant-safe cleaning solutions: When learning how to clean landscape rocks without killing plants, opt for environmentally friendly options. Mix white vinegar and water (1:1) for a natural rock cleaner.

Bringing New Life to Your Outdoor Space

Rock landscaping is a great way to add texture and interest to your outdoor spaces. While the initial installation of rock landscaping may require some work, proper cleaning and maintenance can help keep it looking its best for years to come. Now that you know how to clean landscape rocks, what’s next?

If you're in the Columbus or Cincinnati area, Stone Center is here to help with all of your landscaping and hardscaping needs! We’re thrilled to offer a wide selection of replacement stones if your landscape features need refreshing. Contact us to explore options for enhancing your outdoor living space!