Plum Slate Chippings - 40mm - Bulk Bag

Name: Plum Slate Chippings - 40mm - Bulk Bag
Brand: Long Rake Spar
SKU: 3mvtai27ph
Availability: InStock

The Long Rake Spar 40mm Plum Slate provides distinctive aesthetics for various garden landscaping ...

Best current price£196.76from B&Q

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BradfordsLong Rake Spar 40mm Plum Slate Bulk Bag Decorative Garden Gravel for Landscaping

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Product Information

Full details

The Long Rake Spar 40mm Plum Slate is designed for homeowners and professional landscapers looking to add texture and visual depth to garden beds, paths, and aquatic features. Its primary benefit is its versatile, color-shifting aesthetic that transitions from deep purple-plum when wet to a soft grey-plum when dry, providing year-round visual interest. While it is an excellent material for ground cover, users should note that the 40mm size is larger than fine gravel and may feel less stable for barefoot walking on heavily trafficked residential paths.

All features

Model Part Number	SLAP40IBC
Brand	Long Rake Spar

Extended Product Information

FAQs

Is this slate safe for my garden pond?

Yes, this product is fish-friendly and safe for use in and around aquatic environments.

How deep should I lay the slate?

We recommend a minimum depth of 40mm to 50mm to provide full coverage and effective weed suppression.

Does the color stay purple all the time?

The color shifts based on moisture. It appears a deep plum when wet and a subtle pale grey-plum when dry.

Can this be used for a driveway?

While it can be used for light-duty driveways, 40mm is quite large for vehicle tires; it is better suited for garden paths, borders, and decorative features.

Does the slate break down over time?

As a natural stone, it is extremely durable and will not rot or decay like organic wood mulches.

Troubleshooting

Stone color looks dull or dusty

Rinse the area thoroughly with a hose; the natural plum color is most vibrant when the stone is clean and damp.

Weeds growing through the slate

Ensure that a high-quality weed control membrane was used under the stone and that the stone depth is at least 40mm to block sunlight.

Slate is shifting or sinking into the soil

Install a sub-base of crushed stone or a stabilization grid to create a firmer foundation for the decorative slate.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Captivating color changes based on weather conditions
Completely safe for use with fish and aquatic life
Reduces landscape maintenance by suppressing weeds
Durable enough for residential pathways and garden borders
Promotes healthy plant growth by retaining soil moisture

Cons

Larger 40mm size may be uneven for barefoot traffic
Requires a solid sub-base to prevent sinking in soft soil
Bulk bag delivery requires dedicated space for placement

Setup, Compatibility & Care

To ensure the best longevity and aesthetic, follow these guidelines:

Ground Preparation: Clear the site of all existing vegetation and debris. Lay down a high-quality, permeable landscape fabric to separate the slate from the soil and further prevent weed growth.
Installation: Pour the chippings from the bulk bag and rake them out to achieve an even depth across the intended area.
Compatibility: This product is fully compatible with natural stone paving, timber sleepers, and metal lawn edgings, which can be used to contain the slate within specific borders.
Maintenance: To keep the slate looking fresh, occasionally spray it with a garden hose to remove accumulated dust or leaves. This also refreshes the intense plum color.