Planting anything on an incline might seem like more trouble than it's worth. However, if your yard has any slopes, you could be at risk for soil erosion and landslides. The best way to avoid them is to plant trees, shrubs or other plants on the slope to strengthen the ground. Here are some tips for gardening on a slope:
There are several different types of plants that will grow well on a slope. One type is ground-cover plants that spread out to form a mat of vegetation and roots. Plants that have deep roots and plants that grow multiple stems from the same root are also beneficial. Try ornamental grasses, sprawling shrub roses and clover.
It's also important to consider the environmental needs of the plants you choose. If you have a sunny slope, try catmint, creeping juniper, rosemary and purple coneflower. If your slope is mostly shaded, opt for carpet cypress, periwinkle or pachysandra.
You'll want to avoid planting things that grow tall but have shallow root systems. Some examples of trees to avoid because of their roots would be cottonwood or cypress. Both have shallow roots that make them risky to plant around your home and on a slope. Instead of helping prevent erosion, they might cause more damage if they fall during a landslide.
You'll also want to avoid any invasive species that could threaten the local ecosystem. Some invasive plants, like English ivy and vinca, grow quickly and can invade neighboring yards if not properly maintained. Research what plants might be problematic in your area before you get started with your gardening.
Most experts will advise against laying grass turf on a slope. However, if the incline is shallow enough and you don't mind the extra mowing effort, turf can work well on some slopes. The key issue with turf on a slope is watering, as water will drain downhill instead of evenly saturating the lawn. Keep this in mind if you live in a particularly dry climate that would require regular watering.
By using any of these ideas you will be able to plant an eye-catching and effective garden on a slope. Consider these options to prevent erosion and protect your property from possible landslides.
Broker Profile: Pierre comes from a diverse background. His adolescent and early adult years found him working for his father, a renowned structural engineer, and his brother, an architectural designer and general contractor. His knowledge of construction design (architectural & structural) and practices is significant. He coupled his construction background with his considerable sales experience, by becoming licensed to sell real estate in Massachusetts in 1986.
Pierre is also a licensed Attorney in the Commonwealth, who formerly worked for the Massachusetts Attorney General’s office as a litigator in the Victim & Witness Assistance Division of the Family & Community Crimes Bureau, litigating cases involving victims of violent crime, and since then has had his own legal practice.
For decades, Pierre has excelled in helping buyers of real estate find that condo, single-family, multi-family, lot of lands, or commercial property they desire to buy, or by effectively marketing his clients’ properties to sell their property for the most amount of money possible. His professional background embodies the ideal combination of construction, sales, negotiating, and contract drafting, which is essential to actualizing his clients’ goals and/or dreams. He does all of this with attention to detail, integrity, and success.
Since 1995, PCR Realty has helped buyers and sellers make their transactions as successful as possible. Using a consultative approach, PCR Realty approaches each experience as a unique opportunity for its clients. As a full-service real estate brokerage firm, PCR Realty provides leading-edge services for buyers & sellers.
When it comes to successfully navigating today’s complex real estate market, you need to work with someone who has the experience and commitment to see it done right. PCR Realty excels at matching buyers to sellers. From state-of-the-art marketing to an experienced broker, PCR Realty works diligently to far exceed your expectations. PCR Realty invites you to learn more.
