It can be difficult to garden on a slope, but it is possible with the right soil, drainage, and plants. Terracing or contouring your garden beds can help with soil erosion. Be sure to choose plants that are appropriate for your climate and soil type. Ground covers can be helpful in preventing erosion and retaining moisture in the soil. With a little planning, you can have a beautiful garden on a slope!

Terracing or Contouring

Terracing is creating flat areas in your garden beds by building up dirt on the downhill side against a wall or fence. This will create level areas for planting and will also help with drainage and soil erosion. If you do not want to build a wall, you can create contour lines in your garden bed with a shovel or hoe. These lines should be about 18 inches apart and run perpendicular to the slope of your yard. Then, fill in the trench with soil and plant your seeds or transplants. Be sure to water regularly so that the soil does not wash away.

Types of Plants

When choosing plants for your slope, it is important to consider your climate and soil type. Some plants that do well in sunny, dry conditions are herbs such as thyme and sage. If your slope is shady, try planting ferns or hostas. Be sure to test your soil before planting to see what amendments you may need to add such as compost or fertilizer. You will also want to choose plants that have shallow root systems so that they do not get uprooted in heavy rains. Some examples of shallow-rooted plants are impatiens, zinnias, and marigolds.

Ground Covers

Ground covers are an important part of gardening on a slope because they help prevent erosion and retain moisture in the soil. They also add color and texture to your landscape! Some popular ground covers are creeping phlox, sedum, and ivy. Be sure to choose a ground cover that is appropriate for your climate and soil type. You will also want to make sure that the ground cover does not spread too rapidly or become invasive.

Conclusion:

Gardening on a slope can be challenging but it is definitely possible with the right planning! Be sure to terrace or contour your garden beds, choose plants appropriate for your climate and soil type, and add some ground covers for extra protection against erosion. With a little bit of effort, you can have a beautiful garden on any slope!