How to Stop Erosion on a Hillside Landscape
- 1). Remove large rocks and other objects on the hillside which may interfere with grading. Healthy, growing trees should remain, as these contribute to holding the soil in place. In cases of severe erosion, soil may be brought in to accommodate plantings.
- 2). Grade the hillside, using the method deemed most effective for erosion control. Terracing is the process of creating contoured intervals on the steep hillside. Terracing may be done in frequent intervals, called benching or broad-based, which somewhat decreases the slope.
- 3). Prepare soil for planting. If areas of the hillside will be seeded, seed may be sown following soil preparation in some cases. If established plant material is used, holes should be dug at this time
- 4). Install erosion control mat or fabric. Thick, heavy-duty fabric may be necessary in some situations and grass should be sodded in on top; however, many types of erosion control mats allow for planting after the mat is installed. Complicated erosion control jobs may require a contractor or other landscape professional. The erosion control mat should be well-secured during this process.
- 5). Plant trees, shrubs and flowers in prepared soil. Native plants may be beneficial if the hill is steep and difficult to water. Most natives survive during periods of drought and periods of heavy rainfall. Plants that are easily established and those with strong root systems aid in erosion control. Mulch over seeds and around newly planted trees, shrubs and flowers. A well placed layer of organic mulch, 2 to 4 inches deep, holds moisture and adds nutrients which were washed away during the erosion process,
