VT (for all of my design-obsessed peeps)

sourceofphotounknown Peeps, As a devoted reader of Shane’s blog for quite some time, I was both pleased and apprehensive at his invitation to contribute an article during his absence.  During our many chats, I was encouraged to write about subjects I enjoyed most.  Unfortunately, and under the advice of my attorneys, such incriminations would serve me poorly!!  Subsequently I have selected hardscaping; specifically, the enhancement of texture in the garden through the appropriate use of stone materials. In my view, the two basic components of any garden is the softscape—plant material, and the hardscape-inanimate materials.  Hardscape materials range from pink flamingos to drainage systems.  There are three basic types of stone materials to select from:  First, surface stone(s) which are any stone(s) harvested from an exposed vantage.  Commonly referred to as weathered stone, this type of stone is ideal for wall materials, as well as steppers....