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Win the Uphill Battle: How to Landscape a Hill

Landscaping a hill might seem like a daunting task, but so is the nightmare of pushing a heavy lawnmower along a slope. Unfortunately, most people believe that the alternative is to stare at an expanse of weeds descending into their yard. But, don’t let this incline fool you. That unsightly hillside can indeed be transformed into a beautiful addition to your outdoor space. All you need is just a little imagination and planning. So, get ready to tackle that mountain of a problem and learn these simple steps on how to landscape a hill.

How to Landscape a Hill – Step 1: Evaluate the area

Is that difficult-to-maintain hill in your yard a perfect fit for a hillside rock garden? Is the location also near an electrical source? If so, it could be well suited for a waterfall feature. This would utilize that incline to its fullest and it also would give you the serene sound of rushing water. Or, it could be a great place for a dry creek bed. It could help to divert rainwater downhill, away from the rest of your yard. But, keep in mind that a very steep hillside will require larger, heavier rocks to remain in place. If you are dealing with excessive erosion, adding some low maintenance plants will help to keep your landscaped hillside in place whether you opt for the waterfall or not.

Additionally, if your hill already has many natural plants, you might consider trimming them back and then adding a gorgeous rock pathway. Ultimately, much of your design decisions will depend on the degree of the slope. If it is a gradual slope, you may just consider using large flat stones flanked by smaller ones. But, if the grade is steep, steps made from stones could be the answer. Either way, a pathway can clean up and add visual interest to your existing plants and as a result, create functionality.

How to Landscape a Hill – Step 2: Choose your materials

Once you have decided which landscaping option fits your situation best, compile a list of materials for your project.

Next, and perhaps most importantly, use a materials calculator to help you estimate the amount of landscape product you will need. Be sure to use one prior to buying your materials. Otherwise, you may buy too much or too little.

Since there are a vast array of landscaping materials to choose from, like decorative rock and mulch that come in various sizes, textures, and colors, you will need to decide which materials will work best. For example, if you decide on that beautiful waterfall feature, you might choose a multi-colored river rock. Because of its rounded edges and variation in colors it lends itself perfectly to running water. If you opt for the rock pathway, look for large, flat stepping stones, over-sized rip rap, and eastern shore egg rock to line and fill your new, beautiful path.

How to Landscape a Hill – Step 3: Make a plan

Finally, it’s important to realize that any landscaping project will take a lot of time and work. It will, however, pay off in the end. Homes that are landscaped offer far more curb appeal than those that are not. And, if you are selling a home, consider this: investing in home landscaping could potentially pay a 215% return in home value. Hence why you should take advantage of a low maintenance solution like a rock garden or dry river bed.

Now that you have a vision for your new project and a plan, you should ask yourself whether this project is something you can do on your own or whether you should hire a professional. Either way, Wilson Blacktop can deliver your landscaping supplies within a 50-mile radius of our home base in Martins Ferry, Ohio.

Most importantly, you don’t have to keep dreading landscaping that hill. We are excited to help you with that uphill battle. So, don’t hesitate to contact us and set up your delivery!