Creating a gravel garden can be a beautiful and water-wise solution for gardening in Victoria, BC, particularly suitable for areas with limited water resources or for gardeners seeking low-maintenance options. Here's how to establish a thriving gravel garden in this region:

1. Choose the Right Location: Most plants suited for gravel gardens prefer full sun, so select a site that receives plenty of sunlight throughout the day. The area should also have good drainage, as standing water can be detrimental to many drought-tolerant plants.
2. Improve Drainage if Necessary: If your selected site doesn't naturally have good drainage, you may need to improve it by incorporating a layer of coarse sand or fine gravel into the topsoil. In extreme cases, installing a drainage system may be necessary before adding your gravel and planting.
3. Select Suitable Plants: Choose drought-resistant and sun-loving plants that thrive in gravelly soil. In Victoria, BC, consider native plants and well-adapted non-natives such as lavender, sedum, Echinacea, Russian sage, and various ornamental grasses. These plants typically require less water and maintenance once established.
4. Lay a Weed Barrier: Before adding gravel, consider laying a permeable weed barrier fabric on the soil surface. This can help prevent weeds from emerging through the gravel while still allowing water to penetrate the soil.
5. Apply Gravel: Spread a thick layer of gravel—about 2 to 3 inches deep—over the area. Choose a gravel size and color that complements your home and garden design. The gravel acts as a mulch to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and provide an aesthetic ground cover that highlights your plantings.
6. Plant Through the Gravel: Make openings in the weed barrier (if used) and plant your selections directly into the soil beneath the gravel layer. Ensure plants are well-watered after planting and until they are established. The gravel will help keep the soil moist for the roots but allow the excess water to evaporate.
7. Maintenance: A gravel garden is relatively low maintenance but keep an eye out for any weeds that manage to sprout and remove them promptly. Also, monitor the moisture level of the soil, especially during the first growing season, to ensure plants become well-established. Over time, you may need to add more gravel or adjust plantings based on their performance.

A gravel garden in Victoria, BC, can offer a visually appealing, eco-friendly, and low-maintenance gardening solution, blending seamlessly with the natural landscape while supporting local biodiversity.