West Seattle — Add gravel to beds
Homeowner’s Issue
West Seattle yards face a few predictable problems: compacted glacial till and silt in low spots, heavy winter rain that pools against foundations, moss on shaded north slopes, and salt spray near Alki and Fauntleroy that limits plant choices. Many older lots have narrow drive access, steep front slopes around the Junction and High Point, and thin topsoil patches that wash when storms hit. Mulch and organic matter break down fast in our wet winters, leaving beds that need frequent replenishing and pull weeds easily in the drier summer months.
Adding gravel addresses drainage and erosion while lowering seasonal upkeep. Gravel stabilizes paths and bed edges on slopes, keeps crowns of perennials drier in winter, and reduces the organic fuel that feeds slugs and moss. We use only sustainable methods: mechanical removal of invasive ivy, hand-weeding, organic soil amendments, and physical barriers like fabric or edging where appropriate—no herbicides. For West Seattle properties near Lincoln Park or Alki Beach, we also consider salt-tolerant plant mixes and heavier aggregate near exposed edges to resist wind-driven debris. Expect better curb appeal with less annual work and a plant palette that actually thrives in our microclimates.
Our Quality Service
- We assess sun exposure, slope, and existing soil on-site or by detailed photos to size materials correctly.
- Prep includes hand-removal of invasive roots (ivy, blackberry runners), raking, light soil amendment with compost where plants remain, and installing permeable fabric if needed.
- Installation uses wheelbarrows, rakes, compacting tools, and measured gravel spreads to 1–3 in. depth depending on use.
- Typical timeline: half-day for a small bed, 1–2 days for a standard yard; steep sites or large haul-away add time.
- We prioritize sustainable techniques—no herbicides; only organic mulch, manual or mechanical weed control, and recycled/locally sourced aggregate when available.
Benefits: improved drainage, reduced maintenance, safer walking surfaces in wet months, stabilized slopes, and cleaner curb appeal that lasts through West Seattle’s rainy season.
What’s Included
- Site assessment and material recommendation
- Clearing of old mulch and mechanical/hand weed removal
- Optional light topsoil amendment around retained plants
- Gravel delivery and even installation to specified depth
- Edge trimming and finish cleanup
Options / upgrades:
- Landscape fabric underlay (permeable) + fabric staples
- Mulch + fabric zones for mixed beds
- Organic weed barrier (manual follow-up program instead of herbicides)
- Haul-away of debris vs. sorting for Seattle green bin or transfer station
- Decorative stone borders or metal edging for slope control
Before & After / Expectations
- Noise & mess: expect loud tool noise and hauling for a few hours; we keep work areas tidy but bring a small pile of debris to be hauled or green-binned.
- Access: steep driveways, gate widths, and stair-only access on many West Seattle lots can change crew size and time; mention these when you request an estimate.
- Debris handling: choose haul-away or local green bin sorting; dump fees discussed up front.
- Timeline: small beds completed same day; larger installs 1–2 days, with follow-up visits for settling or touch-ups.
- Care tips for West Seattle:
- Water new plantings in gravel beds during dry spells (June–September), early morning only, 2–3 times weekly for the first month.
- Expect summer weed flushes after rains—plan a simple manual weeding session in late spring and early fall.
- Watch for moss in shaded spots; remove by hand and increase drainage or light if possible.
- Keep invasive ivy and blackberry runners trimmed; root systems often remain and require repeat attention.
FAQs
Q: Will gravel stop all weeds?
A: No—proper prep (root removal, fabric) reduces weeds significantly, but expect occasional weed seedlings; we use hand removal and organic options only.
Q: How deep should gravel be?
A: Typically 1–3 inches. Pathways and slope toes get thicker layers; plant-root zones get thinner with topsoil pockets for planting.
Q: Do you use herbicides?
A: No. We rely on mechanical, manual, and organic methods only—no chemical herbicides.
Q: Can gravel handle West Seattle slopes and salt exposure?
A: Yes—properly compacted and edged gravel stabilizes slopes and resists salt spray near shorelines. We select aggregates suitable for your microclimate.
Call to Action
Ready to tidy your West Seattle beds for the long haul? Book a free estimate and get a realistic schedule—often within a week. We work in Alki, Lincoln Park corridors, and across the Junction with practical, sustainable solutions.
Email: neatandtidyseattle@gmail.com
Phone: 206-538-9344
Quick scheduling, clear pricing, local know-how—book a site check or send photos for an estimate.
