Landscaping Hillsides Save Time

If your backyard has a steep hillside, you may feel a bit daunted by the prospect of doing something with it.

Attempting to mow a steep hillside is one of the activities that frequently results in a lawnmower tumbling down the hill with the operator rolling after it.

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By exercising great care at all times it is possible to mow a steep hillside, of course, but it's quite possible to remove the problem altogether with a little planning. It is imperative to have some type of growth on your hillside, to prevent erosion.

You've got two choices. The first is to remove the grass from the hillside completely, and replace it with sturdy but attractive groundcover, from the dainty look provided by 3-inch "baby's tears" to the 2-foot tall Scotch heather. Different colors are available too, of course, from the deep green of English ivy to the bright yellow blossoms of moneywort.

The second choice is to actually change the shape of the hillside itself - to terrace it, or build a retaining wall.

First things first

If you're determined to do something with your hillside, the first thing to do is clear it of all undesirable material, from rocks to brush to weeds. Of course you'd do that if all you were going to do is mow it, as well. You never want to mow in an area that has rocks that can be thrown up and back at you (and you should wear eye protection whenever you're mowing even a normal, flat lawn).

Do a few tests on the soil of the hillside to see what it's made of. Just like the rest of your yard the soil can vary, from dense clay to coarse sand. If you choose to place groundcover on your hillside, you'll have to choose the appropriate plants that will flourish in that type of soil. You'll also have to give a thought to how much water these plants will require.

Does the soil absorb water, or does it allow the water to pass through and flood onto your lawn below? Again, you'll want to give some thought to the type of groundcover you use. The kind with good, deep roots is usually best. If you're planting shrubs, place them in staggered lines rather than in rows. The staggered design will prevent the water from rushing downward.

If you choose to terrace the hillside, or build a retaining wall, make sure you check the zoning laws in your area first. It is also imperative that you check with your local utilities such as electricity and water to ensure that you will not be digging into a buried power line.

You don't want to start excavating into your hillside without making a plan first and assembling all the materials you need so you can get started immediately. If you remove all the ground cover and then have to stop work for a week or so while you're waiting for a delivery of timber or stone, and a storm comes up, you might find that all that hillside will slide down into your back yard.

It's possible to build a retaining wall yourself, of course, but you must do considerable research to find out the best materials to use and exactly how to build it. The last thing you want to do is build an elegant-looking wall out of timber, only to have it collapse on you because you didn't build a trench in which to bury the first course of timbers, to anchor the wall solidly.

As with all things, research and planning are key.

Landscaping Hillsides Save Time

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Tips For the Challenge of Steep Hill Landscaping

There are some plants that are good choices for steep hill planting. If planted correctly they can prevent future erosion. Ground hugging shrubs like Blue Rug junipers are a good choice, along with groundcover evergreens. Pebbles and shrubs will just wash away, so it is best to avoid these. Larger stones will settle better, and along with the shrubs, can go a long way in erosion prevention.

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Another tip for steep hill landscaping is to plant trees that develop extensive root networks. The trees can provide shade while also stabilizing the soil. The stabilized soil can make landslides less likely.

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Flower gardens are yet another steep hill landscaping idea that is easy an easy way to add color. Steep hills may not have any other practical use, so why not beautify the area with a multitude of flowering blooms. Making a paved pathway or adding steps can help prevent erosion while giving a nice access up and down the hill.

A retaining wall could be the most essential addition to any steep hill. If you plant trees, shrubs or flowers on your hill you will need to have an effective way to keep them watered. Watering on a hill can present a new set of problems. The water will run down the hill before being properly absorbed while also adding to erosion. The retaining wall is a structure to prevent landslides of dirt, rocks and plants. It can help keep the soil from flowing down with watering and rain.

The retaining wall should be several feet higher than the current soil level. This will keep the accumulated soil from overflowing. The retaining wall also offers a added measure of safety as a landslide from your property can be a dangerous liability to the homeowner.

A steep hill can be a picture perfect addition to any home, but also a challenge to find solutions to landscape. By using these tips for steep hill landscaping you will add beauty to your landscape while also helping your property to survive many years of the natural elements that can lead to erosion and landslides.

Tips For the Challenge of Steep Hill Landscaping

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Ideas For Landscaping a Hill

There are many ideas for landscaping a hill and many considerations that will need your attention before you start. With some prior planning, the finished result can be stunning. Without some prior planning, you could end up with a lot of hard work which results in an impractical area that is difficult to maintain.

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The steepness of the hill will be a factor to take into account when deciding what the area is going to be used for. If the area is very steep, then it may be an idea to add some terracing. This will make it much more manageable and will also reduce the chances of landslides. A series of terraces will provide flat land so that some areas can be used for seating. These can be accessed by steps and the whole space can be made to look as formal or natural as desired. If your finances will allow, there are many options available when it comes to terracing ideas for landscaping a hill side garden. Paved areas can be linked by stepped or ramped pathways and it can include some flat flower gardens. If funds are limited, it is possible to take a more rustic approach and leave some of the land natural with just a couple of terraced areas which can be cultivated or used for seating.

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If your hill side garden is currently heavily planted with trees, you should be careful if you decide to remove them all. You may find that their roots are a contributing factor to the stability of the slope and their removal may cause much of the soil to make its way to the bottom of the hill. Any of your ideas for landscaping a hill must take this into account and, if you are not going to terrace the area, then it may be wise to keep some of the secure and established root systems in tact. If you do not already have some trees on the hill then it may be wise to consider planting some. Trees planted on a hillside can look stunning as you stand at the top and look over them. If the slope is steep it can give you a real feeling of being amongst the tree tops.

A sloping garden has tremendous potential for anyone with an imagination and good eye. It can be made to look very natural, with areas of wild flowers and possibly even a substantial water feature. It is possible to include a long stream tumbling down the hillside amongst rocks and thoughtfully planted wild flowers. This would obviously depend on the availability of an electricity supply as a good quality pump would need to be included. Such a water feature would have to be one of the first parts of the construction of the garden with other aspects built around it. You would have to carefully plan all of your ideas for landscaping a hill garden prior to undertaking such a large project. The end result, however, could be stunning.

Other considerations are going to have to include the drainage of the area. It goes without saying that top of the hill is going to drain to the bottom so there is no point in putting thirsty plants at the top and cacti at the bottom. The best plan of action is to gather all your ideas for landscaping a hill area together and decide what you want to use the area for. You must decide whether your finished project is going to be formal or rustic, whether you want to include a water feature or if you want to incorporate some terracing.

Ideas For Landscaping a Hill

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Gardening Tips For Landscaping A Slope Or A Hill

Not every gardener is lucky enough to have flat property on which to garden. If you do have a slope or a hill, it is often very difficult, confusing and challenging trying to figure out how to landscape. There are many ideas and tips on gardening on a hill, which helps you deal with the special challenges and problems you are likely to encounter. If the garden slope is extremely steep, stay away from planting grass or gardens that need any kind of maintenance, as it can be hazardous trying to cut or look after them.

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A couple of great tips on gardening on a slope are to plant trees and shrubs. Their root system will slow water runoff, especially during heavy rainstorms, and anchor the soil. Tall perennial grasses also work well on hills and require no maintenance. If you like the natural look, sow wildflower seed over the area, which will look beautiful and keep the topsoil from eroding or washing away. Wildflower seeds are readily available in bulk at large garden centers and nurseries. For every square foot you need approximately fifty seeds. If you have a small area to seed, buy a small can, but for large areas, wildflower seeds are available in bulk. Make sure that whatever you plant requires no regular maintenance if it is a steep hill.

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In Pennsylvania I saw a beautifully landscaped hill planted with different colors of azaleas. The site in the spring and early summer was breathtaking. This was on a steep hill so it not only helped with erosion but was gorgeous too.

For shady areas, the tips on gardening on a hill are a little different. Most wildflowers require lots of light so a shady area is not a good choice. Instead, consider shade-loving ferns, perennials and low growing vines. Not only does the leaves slow erosion by catching the rain before it hits the ground but the roots help keep the soil from washing away. Another couple of great tips on gardening on a slope are to create stair steps or terraces. This requires some work, as you need to do a lot of digging. You may need to construct a retaining wall, depending on how steep the slope is. A level area to plant helps with erosion problems and makes it far easier to work in your garden.

For anyone that has a few garden challenges, such as land that slopes, they are always happy to find tips on gardening on a slope. If you are lucky enough to have weathered or interesting looking rocks on your hill, then it is the perfect area to create a rock garden. It would be good to plant some low growing vines and perennials in your rock garden to add texture and interest to your rock garden.

Definitely come up with a plan before you attempt your hill garden. Ask your garden center for some advice about your garden; they will be of great assistance. As with all gardens it is most important that you take time to enjoy your gardens whether they are on a hill or in beds.

Happy Gardening!

Copyright © Mary Hanna, All Rights Reserved.

This article may be distributed freely on your website and in your ezines, as long as this entire article, copyright notice, links and the resource box are unchanged.

Gardening Tips For Landscaping A Slope Or A Hill

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Ideas For Landscaping a Hill - Jazz Up Your Property

When it comes to ideas for landscaping a hill, it can be a tough decision what to go for. Do you want something simple and easy to care for? Or something rather stylish and interesting? There are many things you can do, as living by a hill can be stunning. But there are several things you must consider before you try, as landscaping a hill can be a challenge.

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One of the things you should take into consideration is just how steep your hill is. You must also keep in mind the type of soil you have to work with, erosion, and landslides towards the neighbors below you.

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On steep hills your options might be limited, though, not at all entirely gone. For a more gentle slope, your options open up quite a bit more.

As for erosion and landslides, a good idea might be to plant trees, as the root system may aid in stopping these two events. Building a retaining wall a few feet up the hill will also help to manage erosion and landslides.

Now for the creative part! For a gentle slope, planting a garden with the colorful local flora, or creating terrace gardens. You can also build a rock path, for both beauty and functionality. Rock gardens, water features and even boulder structures are other great ideas. Amazingly enough, boulders come in various colors--reds, yellows, whites and grays, amongst others--and various sizes and shapes, so you can make some really beautiful pieces of natural artwork.

Some other ideas for landscaping a hill, especially a steep one, starts with the retaining wall. It sounds a bit daunting, but actually, it is relatively simple and can make for a stunning scene. For a steep hill, segment your hill into two halves with a retaining wall divider and place your wall on the least steep area. Also, by adding splashes of color with flowers, you will create a beautiful and functional backdrop.

You can also add a paved pathway for easy access up your steep hill. This will help in preventing erosion and give a simple way up and down your hill. You might, however, prefer a curved pathway, both for a more natural look and for easier transport of items.

If you are less concerned about the aesthetic appeal, and more about the ease of maintenance, some ideas for landscaping a hill would be to use mulch or bark. It is very simple to do and will cut out the mowing and upkeep. However, you should keep erosion in mind with this choice. One way of preventing it is to add some shrubs. There will be a bit of gardening involved, but very mild work in comparison to a hill covered in grass and flowers. Adding shrubs will also add a bit to the visual appeal of your hill.

So whether your hill is mild or steep, there are many options available. Think of your hill as a blank slate, and be creative with it.

Ideas For Landscaping a Hill - Jazz Up Your Property

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Hill Landscaping - What You Need To Know

Garden Design On A Hill

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It can be quite challenging to come up with the perfect garden design, especially if your plot is steep. You can still have a lot of fun and experiment creating a landscaping scheme on a hillside but be prepared for some added work!

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Getting the Plot Ready

Before you get started in earnest you should tackle any preparation work such as clearing the area, removing rocks and weeds to ensure the space is ready to take your new scheme.

Beating Erosion

You may want to consider planting many shrubs and mulch heavily to get a handle on potential erosion issues. The mulch will also act as a useful insulation layer for your plants by protecting them from the cold and sudden temperature changes.

As well as being ingenious at combating erosion you may also have to be creative with how your maintain a suitable level of moisture throughout your backyard as the slope makes it more difficult for the soil to absorb water.

Make Your Backyard Welcoming

By adding splashes of color to your design you can ensure that your hillside plot is a stunner even from a distance, grabbing the attention of passers-by.

Make Your Scheme Interesting

By adding special features to your design you will not only reflect your taste and sense of fun but also get noticed by people.

Securing The Perimeter

Retaining walls may be required on a steep sloped plot and will not only increase security but be part of the overall design scheme. It is therefore key that you consider carefully what materials and colors to use, and enlist professional help if required. You may want to start your project by listing your requirements first!

By being creative and taking the time to come up with a suitable landscaping scheme you too can turn a difficult, hillside backyard into a relaxing haven for your family, giving you years of enjoyment and increasing the value of your property.

Hill Landscaping - What You Need To Know

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