Low-Maintenance Rock Garden for New Homeowners

For a temporary rock cover against a brick foundation, river rock is ideal—available in light colors, various sizes (up to 5–6 inches), and heavy enough to resist wind displacement. Lay landscape fabric first to suppress weeds, then spread rock 2–3 inches deep. Keep fabric edges tucked under the existing brick border.

Don't replace dug-up soil unless it's severely compacted; the fabric-and-rock layer sits fine on graded subsoil. Pot up any salvageable plants for later use; compost or discard the rest. This approach buys time to learn gardening basics while keeping the front yard tidy.

When ready to plant, simply pull back rock and fabric, amend soil, and install beds. River rock can be reused in pathways or drainage features. It's a practical, reversible placeholder that looks intentional, not neglected.