What Is Dg In Landscaping

If you’re planning a garden path or patio, you’ve probably asked, ‘what is dg in landscaping?’ DG, or decomposed granite, is a versatile material essential for garden design. It’s a naturally weathered granite that crumbles into a mix of fine particles and small stones. This creates a surface that’s both stable and attractive, making it a favorite for many outdoor projects.

Understanding its uses and how to install it properly can make a big difference in your garden’s look and function. Let’s look at why DG is so useful and how you can use it in your own space.

Decomposed granite is exactly what it sounds like: granite rock that has broken down into smaller pieces over time. Unlike crushed granite, which is mechanically crushed and has sharper edges, DG is weathered. This gives it a softer, more natural appearance that packs down firmly.

You’ll typically find it in a few common colors: gold, tan, brown, and sometimes reddish hues. This range lets you choose a shade that complements your home and other garden elements. It’s a chioce that blends well with both modern and rustic styles.

Why DG is a Top Choice for Gardeners

DG offers several benefits that make it stand out from other materials like mulch or plain gravel.

Excellent Drainage: Water filters right through it, preventing puddles and runoff.
Firm Surface: When compacted, it creates a stable, hard surface perfect for walking.
Natural Look: It provides a earthy, minimalist aesthetic that enhances plants and hardscape.
Cost-Effective: It’s often more affordable than pavers or poured concrete.
Low Maintenance: Once installed, it needs little upkeep beyond occasional raking.

Common Uses in Garden Design

You can use DG in many areas of your garden. Its flexibility is a key part of its appeal.

Paths and Walkways: Create informal or formal trails through your garden.
Patios and Sitting Areas: Establish a level, durable space for outdoor furniture.
Driveway Borders: Use it as a soft, permeable edge alongside a concrete driveway.
Around Plantings: Apply it as a decorative ground cover in dry garden beds.
Underneath Play Structures: It provides a safer, more forgiving surface than concrete.

The Three Main Types of DG

Not all DG is used the same way. Knowing the difference helps you pick the right product for your job.

1. Natural DG

This is the basic, screened material straight from the quarry. It’s loose and doesn’t bind together on its own. You use natural DG for informal, low-traffic areas where you don’t mind some shifting. It’s the easiest to install but may need more frequent topping up.

2. Stabilized DG

This is the most popular choice for paths and patios. A stabilizer, usually a resin or polymer, is mixed with the DG. When it cures, it binds the particles together. This creates a solid, semi-permeable surface that resists erosion and weed growth. It’s more work to install but lasts much longer.

3. Resin-Coated DG

Here, the granite particles are coated with a resin before installation. This creates an extremely hard, almost pavement-like surface when compacted. It’s the most durable and dust-free option, ideal for high-traffic areas like courtyards. The cost is higher, but the performance is superior.

How to Install a DG Path: A Step-by-Step Guide

For a stabilized DG path that will last for years, follow these steps carefully. Proper preparation is the secret to success.

Plan and Mark: Outline your path with stakes and string. A slight slope (about 2%) to one side aids drainage.
Excavate: Dig out the area to a depth of about 3-4 inches. This allows room for your base and DG layer.
Add Edging: Install solid edging along both sides. Steel, aluminum, or sturdy plastic will contain the DG. This step is non-negotiable for a clean, lasting edge.
Lay a Base: Fill the excavated area with 2-3 inches of road base or crushed rock. Compact this thoroughly with a plate compactor. A solid base prevents sinking.
Apply the DG Mix: For stabilized DG, mix the dry DG with the liquid stabilizer as directed on the product label. Spread this mix over your base to a depth of about 1 inch.
Compact and Cure: Lightly mist the surface with water and compact it with the plate compactor. Allow it to cure for at least 24-48 hours, keeping it damp, before you walk on it.

Maintaining Your DG Surfaces

With a little care, your DG areas will look great for a long time. Maintenance is straightforward.

Rake Regularly: Use a landscape rake to redistribute loose material and keep the surface level.
Weed Promptly: While stabilized DG resists weeds, some may appear. Pull them early before roots establish.
Top Up as Needed: Over many years, you may lose a small amount of material. Add a fresh thin layer and re-compact if necessary.
Control Water Flow: Ensure heavy rain from downspouts doesn’t channel across your DG, which can cause grooves.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

DG is fantastic, but it’s not perfect for every single situation. Being aware of the downsides helps you decide.

It can be dusty, especially the natural type before it’s fully settled. The stabilizer additives mostly solve this problem. Also, loose DG can stick to shoes and be tracked indoors, so a doormat is a good idea.

If not properly contained with edging and a good base, it can migrate into planting beds or lawns. And while it’s firm, it’s not as uniformly smooth as concrete, which might be a concern for some wheelchair users or if you frequently roll heavy carts across it.

DG vs. Other Popular Materials

How does it compare? Here’s a quick breakdown.

DG vs. Gravel: Gravel is looser, noisier underfoot, and harder to walk on. DG compacts into a smoother, more unified surface. Gravel is often cheeper per ton, but DG usually offers a more refined finish.

DG vs. Mulch: Mulch is for beds, not paths. It decomposes, needs replacing yearly, and doesn’t provide a stable walking surface. DG is permanent and solid.

DG vs. Pavers: Pavers are more formal and expensive. DG gives a more natural, informal look at a lower cost and with a simpler installation process.

FAQ About Decomposed Granite

Is DG cheaper than concrete?

Yes, in most cases. The material cost is lower, and if you do it yourself, you can save significantly on labor. Even professionally installed, it’s often less expensive than poured concrete.

Can I use DG on a slope?

You can, but stabilization is critical. On a slope, natural DG will wash away quickly. Use a stabilized mix and consider adding steps or terraces for very steep areas to control erosion.

How long does a DG path last?

A properly installed stabilized DG path can last 10 years or more with basic maintenance. Natural DG paths may need refreshing every few years as material disperses.

Does DG get hot in the sun?

Like most stone materials, it can get warm, but its natural color is often lighter than asphalt. It generally stays cooler than dark pavers. It doesn’t retain heat as long as concrete after the sun sets.

Can plants grow through DG?

In stabilized DG, it’s very difficult for plants to take root, which is why it’s great for weed control. In loose DG used as a top dressing in beds, some hardy ground covers can spread through it.

DG is a practical and beautiful option that solves many garden design challenges. By choosing the right type and installing it correctly, you create durable, attractive spaces that blend seamlessly with the natural environment. It’s a simple way to add function and style to your outdoor living area.