When you have a level lot that you are trying to landscape, it is a much simpler process than choosing to landscape a piece of property that is hilly. While hillsides can be beautiful once the plants and hardscape have been put in place, it can be difficult to figure out the best way to decide what to put where. Without putting the right support in place, the integrity of the hillside could collapse. Terra Design Group is here to share some tips to help you plan the landscaping for your hillside.
Prevent Soil Erosion
Soil erosion is a common problem when it comes to a hillside. If you don’t have enough support in place, the soil will simply wash away. The best way to avoid soil erosion is with plants that have a complex root system. You should use plants that have a deep root system that will spread with rhizomes. These rhizomes will allow the plant to grasp onto the hill and keep the soil in place. The best plants too choose with this ability are ground covers and shrubs.
How to Water a Hillside
It is hard to have plants on a hillside because as soon as you try to water them, the water will simply allow gravity to pull it down the hill. This leaves plants drier than plants that are planted on level ground. If you are planting a hillside, choose plants that are drought tolerant to ensure they can thrive with less water. You can also choose plants that will be able to get their water from the bottom of the hill too. Some homeowners find that putting in a drip system that delivers water slower is an effective way to water plants on a hill as well.
Consider Hardscape
You can also use hardscape to help with water runoff as well. Putting in features like stairs, retaining walls or even well-placed boulders can help with the water situation. Putting in pathways and stairs can also make it safer for people to walk on. These hardscape designs an help support the hillside and keep soil where it is meant to stay when it is placed just right.
Dry Creek Beds
To control the drainage off a hillside, consider putting in a dry creek bed to help guide the water for appropriate drainage. Not only are dry creek beds effective, but they are also an attractive addition to any landscape design.
Landscape Design, Construction & More in Warren, Sterling Heights, Troy, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Southfield, Novi and Pontiac, MI | Oakland & Macomb County, Michigan
It can be difficult to plan and create the landscape design of a hillside on your own. If your property includes a hillside, you can turn to Terra Design Group to help you turn your hillside into a beautiful part of your yard. We will help you determine the right plants as well as the hardscape design your hillside needs to thrive. You can count on us to make your vision for your yard a reality. Call us today!
