Decomposed granite, or DG, is granite that has weathered into a mix of small stone and fine, sandy particles. The short answer on why it is everywhere in modern landscaping: it is low-cost, natural-looking, and versatile, compacting into a firm surface for paths and patios while also working as bed cover, tree rings, and the backbone of a drought-tolerant yard. Here are the best ways to use it.
What makes DG so useful
DG hits a sweet spot. It costs far less than hard paving, comes in a wide range of natural colors from gold to gray to red, and installs with basic tools. Because it has fine particles in the mix, it compacts into a firm, walkable surface, but you can also spread it loose as a clean topdressing. That range is why it shows up in so many California yards.
Best ways to landscape with decomposed granite
- Pathways: the classic use. Compacted DG makes a firm, natural path. Stabilize it for high-traffic routes.
- Patios and seating areas: a budget-friendly, natural surface for a table or fire pit.
- Xeriscapes and drought-tolerant yards: DG covers ground with no watering and pairs beautifully with succulents and boulders.
- Around trees and in beds: a tidy topdressing that suppresses weeds and holds soil moisture.
- Play areas and dog runs: a firm, low-cost surface that drains.
- Driveways: over a compacted base, DG handles light vehicle traffic.
Choosing a color
DG color sets the tone of the whole space. Golds and tans read warm and classic, grays read modern and cool, and reds and browns add earthy contrast. Because color reads differently in your own light than on a screen, ordering a sample first is the smart move before you commit to a bulk order.
Loose vs. stabilized
Spread loose, DG gives a soft, natural surface that is great for beds and casual cover but can track onto shoes and wash on slopes. Mixed with a stabilizer, it sets up firm and resists erosion, which is what you want for patios, high-traffic paths, and accessible routes. Our guide to stabilized DG explains when to use which.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Low cost | Loose DG can track and wash |
| Natural look, many colors | Needs occasional topping up |
| Compacts firm | Best with edging to contain it |
| Permeable, water-wise | Not as hard as paving |
Frequently asked questions
What is decomposed granite used for?
Pathways, patios, xeriscapes, bed cover, tree rings, play areas, dog runs, and light-traffic driveways. It compacts into a firm surface or spreads loose as topdressing, which makes it one of the most versatile landscape materials.
Does decomposed granite need to be stabilized?
Not always. Loose DG is fine for beds and casual cover. For patios, high-traffic paths, slopes, and accessible routes, a stabilizer keeps it firm and resists tracking and erosion.
How much decomposed granite do I need?
Plan on about 1 ton per 100 square feet at 2 inches deep. Our coverage guide and calculator give you an exact number for your project.
Is decomposed granite good for drought-tolerant landscaping?
Yes. It needs no water, suppresses weeds, lets rain soak through, and pairs naturally with succulents and boulders, which makes it a staple of xeriscaping.
Start your project
Browse our decomposed granite colors, figure quantities with the coverage calculator, and read our coverage guide or install guide to plan it out. Order a sample to see the color in your own yard, and we deliver nationwide from our California yards.