Gardening on slopes can transform an eyesore into an attractive landscape feature. With some creative design, sloped areas of your backyard can become beautiful planted spaces. Here are 10 sloped backyard ideas to maximize the potential of your hilly terrain.
Terraced Gardens
If one tall retaining wall won't work, try dividing a slope into multiple level terraces separated by shorter walls. This allows you to break up a steep incline into more plantable spaces. The terraces can feature different types of landscaping, from grass to flowering beds to a patio area.
Cascading Water Feature
A beautiful way to highlight a slope is with a cascading water feature. Even a small pump and PVC piping can create a relaxing waterfall effect down the hillside. Consider a multi-tier design with different water levels to add visual interest. Plants like ferns thrive in the moist environment around the flowing water.
Wooden Stairway
Gently graded wooden steps provide safe access up and down a slope for busy backyard use. Wider stairs that zigzag across the hill are easier to climb than steep, straight runs. Plantings on either side of the steps add green accents to the walkway.
Rock Garden
Boulders, stones and hillside-tolerant plants transform an eroding slope into an attractive rockery. Group larger rocks near the bottom for stability, using successively smaller rocks higher up. Moss, succulents, herbs and dwarf conifers grow well in the crevices.
Container Plantings
Take advantage of height changes by displaying potted flowers, shrubs and small trees on different tiers of a slope. Arrange containers in eye-catching clusters on steps, landings and retaining walls for color all season long.
Raingarden
A sloped area is ideal for a bioretention garden to capture rainwater runoff. Dig shallow planting beds that hold water for absorption. Choose native wetland plants like iris, hydrangea and ferns to beautify the functional space.
Outdoor Living Space
Build a wooden deck or stone patio partly or fully into the slope for an elevated outdoor room. Add railings and plantings around the edges to take in views from this extra living area. Downlights, string lights or a fire pit enhance evenings spent enjoying the space.
Stepping Stone Path
Lay out a wandering path of flat stepping stones for a walkable route up and down a gentler grade slope. The stones can curve to follow the hilly contours. Try alternating materials, sizes and colors for visual interest along the way.
Dry Creek Bed
Even if water isn't available, a dug-out dry creek bed follows the slope's angles. Pile smooth stones in the bottom to resemble a natural streambed. Plant grasses, perennials and shrubs alongside for a lush look.
Seating Area
Carve out a partly built-in seating area partway up a slope for a scenic spot to relax. Consider a curved stone bench, built-in wooden platform or tucked-away swinging bench partly nestled into the hillside amid plantings. Surround it with flowers, ferns or blooming shrubs for privacy and beauty.
