Everyone’s backyard has various sizes and shapes and at the same time, each backyard has its own challenges too. Maybe yours is finding it difficult to deal with erosion then what you must do is find out the best plant ideas for steep sloping terrain for budget landscaping.
Reasons For Managing Soil Erosion
One insidious landscaping problem we have today is soil erosion. Most times it tends to start small and you might not even get to notice it, not until there is a heavy rainfall and then you realize that all the flowers that you planted have all been washed away. This is when you need to tackle soil erosion issues with the best plant ideas for steep sloping terrain. Soil erosion is also capable of;
- Reducing property value
- Causing build up of sediments in stream and various water bodies
- Posing a serious threat to land structure
- Undercut patio, sidewalks and driveways
- Causing harm to wetlands
The time to act against soil erosion is now because with time, it would start to get worse.
Causes Of Soil Erosion
Your backyard topography is one of the major causes of soil erosion but there are some other factors which can also cause soil erosion in your backyard. They include;
- Loss of plants as a result of unexpected events or diseases
- Impervious surface amount
- The location of your home
- Type of construction in your area which could alter the flow of surface runoff
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Selecting Plants For A Steep Sloping Terrain
The best choice of plants that you can make use of are those who roots are sent very deep into the ground quickly. This in turn makes shrubs and trees viable options for providing anchor so as to hold the soil in place. Plants for steep sloping terrain which has a different structure all together can also be used as it helps in adding a decorative touch as well as providing anchor for soils as well. Here are some of the ways you can make use of in tackling this problem.
Go Natural
Native grasses such as big bluestem, indian grass and prairie species tends to form root work which are extensive and capable of going about ten feet deep inside the ground. However, this might take up to a year to get established so you can go ahead and plant annual ryegrass which can be used in providing anchor for the soil in its first season. One of the advantages of doing this is you can make use of plants that are suitable for your area and you would not have to do much maintenance wise.
Constant Water Feature
If there is a constant supply of water all through the season then you need to convert it to your advantage and create a water feature. Making use of boulders and river stones can be made use of in forming a backdrop for another landscape. It would also be very beneficial to birds and other forms of wildlife as this would prove to be a reliable source of water for all. It should have the shape of a meandering path and not a straight path. This is because each bend slows down the movement of water and prevents runoff if the momentum is high.
Plant Terracing
This is yet another interesting option for best plant ideas for steep sloping terrain on a budget and this is also similar to that of a meandering creek as it is also concerned with the slowing down of water movement. This attractive options is what we consider to be the best way of making lemonade out of lemons and you should also take note that this option doesn’t need to possess rigid set of layers. Adding waterfall to a terrace also helps in making this option more relaxing.
Constructing A Retaining Wall
The combination of a retaining wall and the effectiveness of plant terracing is what makes this option quite unique. Bricks can be made use of to ensure that this structure stays in place and making use of stones with varied lines makes sure it has a more natural look. If you want to enhance the stability of the retaining wall, you can use retaining wall steel posts.
These steel posts provide additional support and can withstand more pressure than bricks or stones alone. One thing that this project requires is effort and time, but it has also proved to be one of the effective and best ways that you can imply in dealing with surface runoff.
If you’re looking for high-quality steel posts for your retaining wall, check out the selection available at Retaining Wall Supplies. They offer a range of sizes and shapes to suit your needs. Click here to view their product page and find the perfect steel posts for your project.
Shrubs And Trees Used In Controlling Erosion
There are plants that tend to do well in a steep sloping terrain or habitat as they provide the soil support which you need on their own. They also help in managing your budget and here are some of the best ideas you can try out;
- Buttonbush
- Low growing junipers
- River birch
- Cottonwood
- Aspen
- Willow species
- Red osier dogwood
Final Note
One of the best additions that you can make in your home is growing plants both on the inside and outside. They are very good at adding color and beauty as well as helping to clear up the air. There are quite some species which can be used in fighting soil erosion and if you have ever witnessed how damaging soil erosion can be, be rest assured the plants and steps we have mentioned in this review will provide the ultimate solution that you seek.
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