James Wood
For steeper slopes and hillsides, building a terrace garden will help prevent erosion, and create a dramatic view. Choose flowers, grasses, and shrubs that coordinate well for each level of the terrace.
If your slope or hillside is steep or long enough, why not build some stairs to help you get to the top or bottom? Whether you opt for stone or brick steps, you can add lush plantings on either side to showcase them!
If your steps are wide, you can also have potted plants on the stairs that you can switch out with the seasons. The soothing sound of falling water makes for a relaxing outdoor space.
By installing a series of switchbacks, or winding and meandering pathway, you can make your way safely and gradually up your slope or hill. Consider rock slabs with pea gravel, or stepping stones surrounded by ground cover to draw the eye up or down the slope.
If you want to control erosion and claim more flat space, you can actually cut out part of the hill and build a retaining wall.
The wall will hold back the soil, and create another focal point. Use the opportunity to create a garden space behind and along the retaining wall for visual interest. If you and your guests have made the effort to climb the stairs or traverse the pathway to the top, reward everyone with a destination fire feature and seating area.
It’s always a good idea to have private seating areas if you like to do a lot of entertaining. If all of this sounds beautiful, but beyond your capabilities, hire a landscape design team with hardscaping experience. Local professionals should know what works and what doesn’t, and will make landscaping on a slope look easy.
