Why would you buy artificial rocks? Can't you go outside and get real ones?

HI -- Rock gardens are hard to do without it ending up looking like a gravel pit or pile and that is sort of what has happened here . There is no texture of color with the rocks and gravel so it all looks like it was just dumped there . The Japanese do rock gardens the best , so maybe look at some pictures of Japanese landscaping to help you with some ideas for yours . The Japanese maple will be more of a focal point the summer after next . I think you need to find a big distinctive feature rock that has some height to back the maple tree and maybe taking some of the gravel away for some planting areas of moss or grasses or even just sand . Colorful aquarium gravel can add some interest too . And also a big garden statue or fountain or a stone pagoda , maybe with a light or candle ... something man made for another point of interest . This may take a couple of years to get this arranged so it looks good to you .

Rock gardens can be quite beautiful. I wouldn't worry about snakes. I have had one for years and no snakes in my foothill garden. The rock placement is very important. Try finding a rock garden society in your area. The gardeners are usually friendly people who love to help other rock gardeners with rock placement and plant selection!

yes...it came in labeled wrapped pallets and was immediately installed in this "griege" color. it was done over only a few dry days so no real time to stain. the polymeric sand used is a beige... I'm no expert but I'm not sure if that could make it look grey...? that is an interesting thought though... I'm wondering if techo bloc recently changed aberdeens RGB color...or I got an "off" lot... thank you for your reply. interested in hearing all thoughts/opinions on this!