As the days cool down and the leaves begin to change color, fall presents the perfect opportunity for landscaping projects that not only beautify your property but also promote hillside stability. With a bit of planning and effort, you can implement projects this fall that will lay the groundwork for a vibrant spring landscape while effectively managing erosion on sloped areas. Here are some project ideas to consider:

 1. Planting Native Vegetation

Fall is an excellent time to plant native species, as cooler temperatures help reduce stress on new plants. Choosing native vegetation is particularly beneficial for hillsides, as these plants are well-adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. They require less water and maintenance, while their extensive root systems improve soil stability and reduce erosion. Some great options to consider include:

• Wildflowers: Encourage biodiversity and attract pollinators.
•  Grasses: Deep-rooted grasses are particularly effective at binding soil.
•  Ground Covers: Low-growing plants like creeping thyme can help prevent erosion while adding color.
•  Native Perennials: Mid September to Early October is a great time to plant depending on your region. Take advantage of improved soil moisture and cooler temperatures that encourage deep root growth.

 

                                                          Eastern United States:

• Echinacea Purpurea (Purple Coneflower): A hardy flower known for attracting pollinators and its medicinal properties.
• Rudbeckia Hirta (Black-eyed Susan): Bright yellow flowers that bloom throughout the summer and are drought-tolerant.
• Monarda Didyma (Bee Balm): Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, with a fragrant scent.
• Asclepias Tuberosa (Butterfly Weed): A favorite for butterflies, especially Monarchs, with vibrant orange flowers.
• Aster Novae-Angliae (New England Aster): Blooms in late summer to fall, providing color and attracting pollinators.

 

                                                            Western United States:

• Lupinus Polyphyllus (Bigleaf Lupine): Offers stunning blue flowers and helps fix nitrogen in the soil.
• Penstemon (Beard Tongue): Known for tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds and come in various colors.
• Achillea Millefolium (Yarrow): Drought-resistant and great for attracting beneficial insects.
• Salvia Dorii (Desert Sage): A drought-tolerant plant with aromatic leaves and striking flowers.
• Gaillardia Aristata (Blanket Flower): A colorful, drought-tolerant flower ideal for sunny gardens.

 

                                                               Midwest United States:

• Solidago (Goldenrod): Provides late-season color and is critical for pollinators.
• Calamagrostis Canadensis (Blue Joint Grass): A grass that adds texture and is tolerant of wet soil.
• Phlox Paniculata (Garden Phlox): Offers vibrant colors in summer and attracts butterflies.
• Verbena Hastata (Blue Vervain): A tall plant that produces spikes of purple flowers, attracting bees and butterflies.
• Heuchera (Coral Bells): Features attractive foliage and delicate flower spikes, perfect for shaded areas.

 

                                                           Southeast United States:

• Rudbeckia Laciniata (Cutleaf Coneflower): Tall plants with bright yellow flowers that bloom in late summer.
• Coreopsis (Tickseed): Produces bright yellow flowers and thrives in poor soils.
• Heliopsis Helianthoides (False Sunflower): Offers a sunflower-like appearance and blooms throughout summer.
• Alyssum (Sweet Alyssum): Low-growing flowers known for their fragrance and attracting pollinators.
• Scutellaria Lateriflora (Blue Skullcap): A native wildflower with beautiful blue flowers and medicinal uses.

 2. Creating Terraced Gardens

If your hillside is steep, terracing can be an effective landscaping solution. This approach involves creating flat areas on the slope, which slows water runoff and provides space for planting. Here’s how to get started:

•  Assess Your Slope: Determine the slope angle to see if Dirt Locker® Hillside Planters are a good fit. With a range of 10°-45°, Dirt Lockers accommodate most slope types including curved, uneven, irregular, steep, mild and narrow. Each individual Dirt Locker® can connect to create a series of terraced rows for gardening, with the ability to add a stepping path throughout your hillside garden. Fall is a great time to purchase as you can often find Dirt Locker® Black Friday deals or take advantage of a year round Dirt Locker discount as seen on the FAQ's.
• Build Retaining Walls: Use stones, timber, or other materials to construct retaining walls that hold back soil on your terraces. Combine a retaining wall with Dirt Locker® hillside terracing solution for added erosion control.
• Fill and Plant: Add soil to the terraces and plant native vegetation that will thrive in each section. Roots will stabilize your slope over time. Dirt Lockers lock in moisture and soil, allowing your plants to root down without the risk of run off.

 3. Implementing Erosion Control Measures

 

Fall is a perfect time to take proactive steps against erosion. Consider implementing the following measures:

•  Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch to bare soil to reduce erosion and retain moisture as plants establish themselves.
• Silt Fencing: Installing silt fencing can help slow down water runoff, allowing sediment to settle before it washes away.
• Wattles or Grass Strips: Use biodegradable wattles or strips of grass to create barriers on your slopes, which can slow water flow and catch sediment.

 4. Installing Drains and Swales

Proper water management is crucial in hillside landscapes. Consider adding drainage systems or swales to redirect water flow away from vulnerable areas. Here’s how to approach this project:

•  Evaluate Water Flow: Observe how water moves on your property to identify potential problem areas.
• Create Swales: Dig shallow trenches along the contour of your slope to direct water to desired areas, preventing erosion.
• Install French Drains: For more severe drainage issues, consider installing French drains to divert excess water away from your hillside.

 5. Fall Fertilization and Soil Improvement

As you prepare for spring, it's beneficial to improve your soil now. Applying a fall fertilizer can support root development in plants. Additionally, consider topdressing with organic compost to enrich the soil, enhance its structure, and improve moisture retention.

6. Designing a Beautiful Pathway

Creating a pathway across your hillside can add both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Use materials like stone, mulch, or pavers, and ensure the path follows the natural contours of the land. This not only enhances accessibility but can also help minimize soil disturbance and erosion in heavily trafficked areas. For Dirt Locker pathway examples head to this customer gallery page.

Fall is a time of transition, often overlooked for landscaping projects. However, investing time now in these thoughtful projects can make a significant impact come springtime. By focusing on enhancing hillside stability and implementing erosion control measures, you can create a beautiful, resilient landscape that thrives. Not only will you enjoy the benefits of a well-landscaped yard, but you'll also contribute to the health of your local ecosystem.