Gravel gardens / RHS Gardening
Small plants can become swamped by gravel. Plant them on a low mound so that that they are raised slightly above the level of the gravel. Where landscape fabric is not used, weeds and selfseeding plants may become problematic, popping up where not wanted. However, allowing selfseeding can give the garden a more natural look even if some weeding is required. If your soil type is heavy, clay