Dry Creek Bed Landscape

Daniela N
by Daniela N
3 Materials
This project was a way to control the flow of rainwater across our front landscape.
Here my 4 easy steps to follow when installing a dry creek bed.
Dig a Trench


I started out by clearing the grass and digging the shape of the creek bed. You can use spray paint to mark out the shape of your creek bed, making it look as natural as possible
Set Large Boulders


We already had a couple of large boulders that surfaced when we had our water line replaced years ago,


so I used them as a focal point.


Most of you won't have boulders already in place, so find rocks and boulders of different sizes.


For a more natural look, instead of lining the sides of the creek bed with rocks, try to create clusters of different size boulders along the river's edge for a more natural look.
Install Plastic or Weed Fabric


I used doubled clear plastic sheet overlapping it for complete coverage, and roof shingles at the base of our home foundation.
The shingles were placed partially against the foundation wall, to create a semi curve and help the water run off into the creek bed.


At this point I also planted a mix of tall grass and mulch.


Cardboard is an inexpensive (and free) material to use instead of weed fabric. Make sure you wet the cardboard well before topping with mulch.
Fill with River Rocks


I used a mix of small rocks that I found for free and 3 bags of river rocks I bought years ago for a different project that never happened.
For more projects, visit frugalaintcheap.blogspot.com
Suggested materials:
  • Rocks   (free at landscaping rock business)
  • Plastic   (Lowes)
  • River rocks   (Lowes)
Daniela N
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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