Cleaning Landscape Rock in Flower Beds

[npalen]

I would think that tilting just past horizontal to drain with or without the barrel turning would drain without putting much load on the grate? Seems like a person could put plenty of water in the mix and do a good job of cleaning and draining.

 

[3Ts]

You can have a grate over the barrel opening with an over center clamp to hold it in place. 3 of them should be sufficient with the handle mounted on the grate and the catch mounted on the drum. That way the catch won't interfere with it's normal usage.

Here's the clamp style, you don't need one this sturdy.
Over center clamp

 

[Spike56]

I would think that tilting just past horizontal to drain with or without the barrel turning would drain without putting much load on the grate? Seems like a person could put plenty of water in the mix and do a good job of cleaning and draining.

Possibly. I had an old mixer (already at the scrap yard). That one with the mouth horizontal, not much would come out. The belly of the drum was still below the mouth. But, I have looked at them in a long long time, so maybe.
Thanks !

 

[npalen]

Possibly. I had an old mixer (already at the scrap yard). That one with the mouth horizontal, not much would come out. The belly of the drum was still below the mouth. But, I have looked at them in a long long time, so maybe.
Thanks !

Let us know how it works if you go ahead with the project.

 

[LS Tractor Owner]

Yes, please let us know if you find a solution. I have the same issue here in NM with dirt getting blown into the rock, essentially covering all of it!
I've tried hoeing it, then using water to try and wash it down.... nope!
Tried using high powered air and a radiator genie to blow it out.... nope!

I'm almost ready to just put mulch over the stone...and repeat...and repeat...

 

[Spike56]

Yes, please let us know if you find a solution. I have the same issue here in NM with dirt getting blown into the rock, essentially covering all of it!
I've tried hoeing it, then using water to try and wash it down.... nope!
Tried using high powered air and a radiator genie to blow it out.... nope!

I'm almost ready to just put mulch over the stone...and repeat...and repeat...

Still searching for an "easy solution". So far I have a feed tub with 3/8 holes drilled in the bottom. Scoop it up, dump in and set on 2x4 frame I made over wheel barrow. Shake, dump back in. Very time consuming. Trying to clear some time to even think about a better solution.

 

[LS Tractor Owner]

That's way too much labor for me ..... I almost think about this daily and have yet to think of anything easy... or faster!

 

[Spike56]

That's way too much labor for me ..... I almost think about this daily and have yet to think of anything easy... or faster!

I agree COMPLETELY ! Yet to come up with a solution.

 

[Dynahinte]

Cleaning landscape rock in flower beds can be a bit of a chore, but it’s doable with the right approach. It helps to start with a good sweep to eliminate loose debris. If you have any stubborn stains or algae, a mixture of water and vinegar usually does the trick. Just be careful with how much vinegar you use so it doesn’t harm your plants. You might need a pressure washer for a thorough clean, but make sure it’s set to a gentle setting. I’ve been in the same boat and found that having a clear plan makes it less daunting. If you’re considering a fresh start or need some tips, check out pool and landscape design ottawa, which might give you some cool ideas for design and maintenance. It’s incredible what some planning can do for your outdoor space!