Coldwell Banker Realty - Lynnfield
Lynn D'Avolio, Coldwell Banker Realty - LynnfieldPhone: (801) 597-2857
Email: [email protected]

Gardening to Prevent Erosion & Landslides

by Lynn D'Avolio 01/18/2023

Landslides are caused by soil erosion and heavy rainfall. If your property has any slopes, it's important to check for signs of erosion so you can avoid the risk of causing a landslide. Here are three ways you can prevent erosion damage and landslides in your own yard:

Plant Densely

An abundance of deep-rooted vegetation is the best natural defense against soil erosion. If you don't already have trees or shrubs in your yard, consider planting some to strengthen the ground. Opt for evergreens like Douglas fir or shore pine for trees with strong, deep root systems. Shrubs like rosemary work well in combination with trees to prevent erosion and require relatively little watering to thrive.

If you already have trees and shrubs on your property, keep them well-maintained. Water the trees regularly as needed depending on their individual growth habits, and clear away dead or diseased trees to prevent debris buildup.

Cover Slopes

Growing trees and shrubs on sloped land can be tricky, but cover crops are an excellent way to protect against erosion with little hassle. Choose plants that are native to your area to promote a healthy ecosystem and ensure they thrive in your climate conditions. Some great options for cover crops are cereal grains like ryegrass, wheat and barley. Other favorites for erosion-prevention are clover, winter peas and mustard varieties.

Mulch Regularly

Bare areas in your yard are susceptible to erosion, but you don't have to plant over every inch to make a difference. Mulch is an excellent option for preventing soil erosion because it helps maintain an ideal moisture balance for the soil. At the same time, mulch will benefit surrounding plants and trees by preventing pests, weeds and damage from heavy rainfall.

Using a combination of these three methods will keep your property healthy and reduce both soil erosion and your risk of landslides.

About the Author
Author

Lynn D'Avolio

It is my goal as your full service real estate Broker specializing in the Boston Metro West area, covering Northshore, and 30 to 45 min from Boston in all directions, to provide you with superior service at all times. My local expertise and extensive real estate experience will benefit you whether you are serious about buying or selling a home at this time, or are a returning client checking out the many homeowner resources I offer. 

I consider this community an excellent place to reside and would love to share with you my enthusiasm for the many neighborhoods that encompass it. I pride myself on providing unparalleled service and look forward to developing a long-term relationship with you. Please feel free to contact me if you would like to discuss how I can best assist you with your real estate needs.