Slope gardens

On this page

The right landscaping reduces runoff and erosion

Don’t remove grass or plants until you are ready to replace them; their roots are likely stabilizing the soil.

Consider sun, shade, and moisture before choosing plants or changing your landscaping. Any changes you make will affect drainage.

Secure rocks or stones in the slope and plant around them to slow the flow of rainwater.

Consult a professional about installing retaining walls to divide the slope into garden beds (like large steps).

Use drought-tolerant plants near the top of the slope and put plants that prefer wet soil near the bottom. See the sample garden designs for suggested plants.

Use a mix of trees, shrubs, perennials and ground covers plants to intercept rainfall.

When adding a new plant, build up the soil underneath it to slow and absorb rainwater.

Use a 7 centimetre (3 inch) layer of mulch between plants to further reduce runoff and retain moisture. You may need to experiment with different types of mulch to find material that stays in place.

For the first few weeks, keep the top 2.5 centimetres (1 inch) of soil moist. After that, water once a week until plants are established (one to two seasons). Then plants should thrive with average rainfall.

Add 5 centimetres (2 inches) of organic material (e.g. compost, manure, leaf mold) every two years to fertilize and create a heavier soil that resists erosion. Use even more organic material if the soil is sandy and light.