How deep should DG be?

3 inches for pathways and patios, laid in two lifts and compacted.

Does DG need stabilizer?

For high-traffic paths, slopes, or ADA compliance — yes. For low-traffic garden paths — usually not.

materials-guides · 5 min read

What Is Decomposed Granite?

DG is finely weathered granite — the most popular natural surface for California pathways and Mediterranean landscapes.

Decomposed granite — DG for short — is naturally weathered granite that has broken down into a mix of coarse sand and small aggregate. It compacts to a firm, permeable surface that looks great in Mediterranean, desert, ranch, and modern landscapes.

DG is one of the most-requested products in California landscaping because it is inexpensive, drains well, and pairs with almost every home style.

What DG is (and isn't)

DG is a natural material — no crushing or blending. Fines are what give it its ability to compact into a smooth pathway surface.

It is not the same as crushed granite, quarter-minus, or crusher fines, though those look similar. True DG has more fines and less angular rock.

Colors and grades

California Gold — warm gold/tan, the state's most popular color.
Madera Gold — deeper amber.
Salmon — pink/rose tones.
Silver / Grey — modern, understated.

Stabilized DG blends the natural product with a binder — it stays firm underfoot, resists washouts, and is ADA-friendly.

Typical uses

Pathways and garden walks.
Patios and seating areas.
Bocce courts and dog runs.
Drought-tolerant landscape fields.

Frequently asked questions

How deep should DG be?: 3 inches for pathways and patios, laid in two lifts and compacted.
Does DG need stabilizer?: For high-traffic paths, slopes, or ADA compliance — yes. For low-traffic garden paths — usually not.

Decomposed GraniteLandscaping

4 min read

California Gold DG Guide

The warm gold DG that shows up in most California front yards — here is exactly how to spec and install it.

3 min read

Stabilized vs Standard DG

Stabilizer costs more up-front and saves annual re-work.

5 min read

DG Pathway Guide

A DG pathway is not just DG — it is a base, an edge, and two compacted lifts.

3 min read

DG Cost

Bulk DG, delivered DG, and installed pathway costs — where the dollars go.

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These results are estimates only. Confirm final quantities, compaction, waste, and delivery requirements with Yardexa before ordering materials.