I have been using cedar mulch in my shrub beds the last several years, but I'm seriously considering using gravel instead. Any downside to using gravel that you know of?
The only thing I can think of is if it was to get into the grass, it's hard on your lawn mower. I used to have a gravel drive way, and mowing the grass next to the drive way was dangerous with flying rocks!
Mulch is said to be better at retaining water then gravel. However, mulch can get termites unless you use the proper mulch and change it out every few years.
One disadvantage of gravel is that it does not hold moisture for long. And that means you have to water your plants more often. Mulch becomes organic fertilizer when it decompose.
Gravel for mulch 
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