Soil erosion presents itself in two ways: surface erosion and subsurface erosion. Surface erosion is the result of water racing across the soil surface picking up soil particles and carrying them away. Plants that spread out across the soil surface are effective with this type of erosion because the foliage prevents water drops from falling directly onto the surface of the soil.Subsurface erosion happens when the soil underneath the surface becomes unstable because there is too much water, causing the soil to slide. Plant root systems need to be extensive and penetrate deeply to hold slope soil firmly in place. Woody shrubs are extremely effective for both types of erosion because they grow several feet across and have an extensive root system.
The following steps were taken to correct water flow prior to planting.
- A diversion ditch is dug just below the ridge line to redirect water away from the steps.
- A chopping hoe is used to score and cut small steps from the top of the ridge to the bottom of the slope. Standard steps are between 6.5 inches to 8 inches in height, and local codes should be checked to see if railings are required. Spray score lines with spray paint to keep path visible until steps are in place (figure A).
- Use a stabilizing block at the top of the ridge (figure B). This gives a nice face at the top edge. Sandstone is used here, but alternatives include railroad ties, cinderblocks or brick.
- Two small pieces of rebar are driven into the ground in front of each stone to stabilize them and keep them from washing away.
Install each step and stabilize (figure C).Desiccated granite is packed around each step to create a firm surface for walking in damp conditions (figure D. Even though it packs down tightly it allows for drainage, so water will not loosen the steps.
RESOURCES :
Whitewater Rock & Supply
Whitewater Rock and Supply
Whitewater, CA 92282
Email: wwrock@aol.com
Website: www.whitewater-rock.com
Plants from Monrovia Horticultural Craftsmen
Monrovia Horticultural Craftsmen
Website: www.monrovia.com
Plants from the Flower Fields
The Flower Fields
Website: www.theflowerfields.com
Garden Maker Software
Garden Maker Software
Email: mo@moplants.com
Website: www.moplants.com/garden_maker_software.html
WOLF-Garten of North America, L.P.
Minneapolis, MN
Phone: 612-455-1500
WOLF-Garten of North America L.P.
Minneapolis, MN 55401
Phone: 612-455-1500
Website: www.ohmygarden.com
GUESTS :
Jamie McMurray
Simply Green
Santa Monica, CA
Phone: 310-403-1925
E-mail: smplygrn@aol.com
Kate Karam
Garden Designer
Los Angeles, CA
E-mail: gardensla@aol.com
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