Getting Stoned

I began work on finishing the planting bed between the new porch and the front walkway. Once completed, this project will connect this front garden with the rest of the Asian-inspired gardens beyond the Middle Gate Entryway and throughout the property.

The focal point of the bed will be a large granite stone that I purchased back in May and am only now installing. 

The stone was far too heavy for me to handle on my own, so I hired Eco Quality Landscaping of Ballston Lake, New York, to deliver and set it in place.

Standing just over three feet tall, the stone was installed upright with at least one foot buried below grade to ensure its stability. 

Once the crew unloaded the stone by hand from the delivery truck, they maneuvered it into position with relative ease. It was also nice to watch someone else do all that hard work—a rare opportunity during one of my gardening projects.

Because one side of the stone has a slight curve, I added a bed of crushed gravel beneath it to provide a solid, level base and help prevent any shifting over time.

I am very pleased with its placement, especially since it does not rise above the porch deck.

There is still plenty of work ahead before this new landscape feature and the surrounding area are complete, but getting the granite stone installed is an important first step.