Know your terrain
First of all, it is necessary to take into account the constraints of the field. You must therefore start by taking stock of your space.
- What is the exposure of your land, depending on the sun, but also on the wind?
- Depending on the slope, the water may not have time to seep in, so maybe you have rather dry terrain?
- How much space do you have?
- Is the soil rich or poor?
- What are the inclination of the slope and the stability of the ground?
If your land is on a gentle slope, that is to say if it is less than 8%, you can make the arrangements yourself. However, in the following cases, it is necessary to call a professional to have possible development proposals:
- if your land has a slope greater than 8% and you are then faced with what is called a steep slope;
- if the soil in your yard is made up of unstable materials, such as gypsum, for example.
Create a landscaped mosaic
To dress your slope without modifying it, it is possible to create a landscaped massif. The slope has the advantage of giving more visibility to the plants, so it is possible to take full advantage of this asset when creating your beds. You can then use ground cover plants that will be adapted to the nature of the terrain. They are available in a wide choice and you can thus marry the colors according to the rendering you want. Thanks to their root system, they will stabilize the ground, reduce erosion and water runoff. You can also opt for plants with rhizomes, such as iris, peony, etc.
Install stairs
Stairs can easily be built on a slope. In addition, having a very aesthetic appearance that will punctuate the space, they are also very practical. And for good reason, they will allow you to access plants. Depending on the area of your land, it is therefore possible to install several. They will also allow you to stroll in your garden. For their realization, you will be spoiled for choice: they can be made of wood, stone, concrete, etc.
Depending on the incline, you can also choose to make steps wide enough to take two steps on them, so the stairs will be less tiring to climb. And why not install lighting along your stairs, because in addition to offering a warmer appearance, they will also have a very practical side at nightfall?
Create terraces
If your land is on a gentle slope, it is easily possible to create terraces. In this way, you will bring greater functionality to different spaces in your garden. You will be able to enjoy a space with a small table, for example, or a bench installed in the heart of your green space. To do this, you can mount concrete or stone walls. Each terrace can have a very specific style. This solution can also be applied in a garden with a steep slope. You can, for example, make a wooden deck that will be partly raised by posts.
Create zones
For practical reasons, it is important to try to arrange the dining area as close to the house as possible, but you can also create other living areas in the garden:
- you can provide a relaxation area with hammocks or garden furniture, for example;
- it is also possible to set up an area dedicated to barbecue, remembering to make it close enough to the space where you are going to sit down to eat;
- you can also opt for an area with a basin fed from the top of the ground;
- it is also possible to install a swimming pool, even on a sloping ground. A pool specialist will be able to provide you with better information to make sure you make the right choice according to your land and your needs.
Arrange aisles
In your sloping garden, it is important to create paths. They will allow you to go and maintain the different spaces, but also to enjoy your entire garden. In addition to their functional aspect, they are also very aesthetic. Indeed, they will come to give volume to your garden. For their realization, choose resistant materials. You can thus turn to interlocking paving stones or slabs.
Use guardrails
Sloping gardens are not always the easiest to access, whether for children, but also for anyone walking in them. It is therefore possible to install guardrails to avoid any type of accident. Do not worry, this security will not spoil the aesthetics of your garden, the whole thing being to think about a harmonious whole. You can thus opt for iron which will be able to survive the years while remaining in good condition, but also for wood for its more natural side.
Mix the materials
When setting up a sloping garden, everything is allowed in the use of materials. You can mix them together for a unique look. It is therefore possible to use stone, wood, metal, etc. Not only will these materials highlight the plants, but they will also retain the earth during the creation of the various arrangements. They will give dimension to your garden.
Choose your plants
It is best to choose resistant plants that require little maintenance. Indeed, it is not always easy to have to prune and take care of a plant that is installed on a slope. If you want to have a specimen that requires more care, set it up where it is most accessible. With strong plants, nature will be able to take its course without you having to climb, week after week, to carry out the maintenance.