Whether you’re revamping your backyard or designing a brand-new outdoor space, one thing is clear—landscaping trends are shifting toward bold colors, natural textures, and eco-conscious materials. One of the most eye-catching updates gaining traction in 2025 is the creative use of colored mulch and stone combinations. These elements don’t just enhance curb appeal—they define spaces, improve plant health, and reduce maintenance.
At Kirk Allen Landscape Supply, we’ve seen a growing number of homeowners and contractors in New Jersey looking to make their outdoor spaces both practical and stunning. If you’re considering a refresh, this guide will walk you through the hottest trends, color combinations that work, and how to choose the right materials for your project.
Why Mulch and Stone Are a Landscaping Power Duo
Mulch and stone are foundational landscaping materials, but when used creatively, they become design features in their own right.
Benefits of Mulch:
- Helps retain moisture in soil
- Suppresses weed growth
- Regulates soil temperature
- Adds vibrant color contrast
Benefits of Decorative Stone:
- Long-lasting, low maintenance
- Great for drainage and erosion control
- Adds texture and depth
- Perfect for borders, walkways, and focal points
When paired thoughtfully, they create an elegant balance between functionality and style.
Trend #1: High-Contrast Color Pairings
One of the standout trends in 2025 is the use of high-contrast materials. Homeowners are ditching the neutral look and going bold.
Popular Pairings:
- Black mulch with white marble chips: A modern, clean contrast that works beautifully around contemporary homes.
- Red mulch with river rock: Adds warmth and earthiness—ideal for garden beds with native plants or rustic aesthetics.
- Brown mulch with pea gravel: Perfect for a classic, low-key look that blends well with wooded or shady areas.
These combinations don’t just look good—they create defined lines between planting zones, which adds structure to your landscape.
Trend #2: Color-Themed Zones
Color psychology has found its way into the garden. People are using mulch and stone to create mood-driven spaces:
- Relaxation zones: Use soft gray stone with dark brown mulch to promote calm.
- Play areas or lively patios: Try brighter red mulch and golden river rock to energize the space.
- Modern minimalist gardens: Use black mulch with sleek granite chips for a clean, structured feel.
This level of customization allows homeowners to make their landscape an extension of their interior design preferences.
Trend #3: Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Choices
Sustainability is a top concern for homeowners, and landscaping is no exception. Many are choosing locally sourced mulch and stone to reduce environmental impact. At Kirk Allen Landscape Supply, we offer both natural wood mulch options and recycled stone materials that meet eco-conscious goals without compromising design.
Tip:
Cedar mulch is a natural insect repellent and lasts longer than dyed alternatives, making it both functional and sustainable.
Trend #4: Functional Hardscape Features Using Stone
Stone isn’t just for aesthetics—it’s essential for functionality in many gardens. Expect to see more creative hardscape uses, like:
- Gravel drainage channels that double as design features
- Stone walkways embedded in colored mulch
- Raised beds with stone borders that help retain soil and water
Combining these practical uses with strategic color design gives you a garden that works and wows.
Trend #5: Mulch Depth and Layering Techniques
Another design-forward approach we’re seeing is layering mulch and stone to create texture.
For example:
- A 2-3 inch base layer of black mulch topped with decorative stones around ornamental trees.
- Using mulch as the primary filler and outlining it with a single row of river rocks for a clean finish.
- Layering colored mulch in geometric or curved shapes, outlined by stone paths or walls.
These details add dimension and personality to your garden beds or front yard.
Choosing the Right Materials for Your NJ Landscape
Before committing to a specific mulch or stone, consider these factors:
1. Sun Exposure:
Some mulch colors fade faster in direct sunlight. For high-exposure areas, consider natural brown or black mulch with UV-resistant dye.
2. Drainage Needs:
Areas prone to pooling water benefit from gravel or river rock, while mulch is better for retaining soil moisture in flower beds.
3. Plant Types:
Mulch works best with flowering plants and shrubs, while succulents and rock gardens thrive with stone.
4. Maintenance Preferences:
Stone lasts longer and requires less upkeep, but mulch adds nutrients to the soil as it breaks down.
Local Expertise, Local Materials
Located right in New Jersey, Kirk Allen Landscape Supply provides quality landscape materials for homeowners, landscapers, and contractors. We carry a wide variety of colored mulch—from black and red to natural bark—and decorative stone options like white marble, river rock, red stone, and gravel.
Need help choosing a combination that works for your space? Our team is always available to walk you through design options, delivery schedules, and best practices.
📍 Visit us at kirkallenlandscapesupply.com
📞 Call 973-347-3117 for expert advice or to place an order.
Final Thoughts: Use Color to Elevate Your Landscape in 2025
Landscaping is more than mowing the lawn—it’s about creating an outdoor experience. Whether you’re trying to increase property value, reduce maintenance, or simply enjoy your space more, playing with colored mulch and stone combinations is a simple and affordable way to elevate your yard.
So don’t be afraid to get creative. Use contrast. Layer materials. Mix tones and textures. With a little planning—and the right materials from Kirk Allen Landscape Supply—you can transform any patch of green into a vibrant, well-defined, and welcoming outdoor haven.
