As we all know, Southern California is not Florida or Kansas – there are mountains and hills EVERYWHERE. So, if you live in one of the many gorgeous hillside homes here in SoCal, how in the world do you both approach
landscaping, comply with the safety regulations inherent in living on the side of a hill, and really get to enjoy your land?
1. Think of your neighbors.
Before embarking upon any project to improve your hillside property, consider your neighbor’s needs as well as your own. Will you need to ask their permission to create a fenced off area on your property line? Are you considering any improvements which will block their view? Will any work you do erode their property? Check to make sure you won’t be hearing complaints from those you must live near; it will make your life much easier in the long run.
2. Examine how nature beautifies hills.
Natural hillsides can be a source of inspiration for your own hillside property. Mother Nature uses deep-rooted plants, like our native California Oaks, along with well-placed rocks, various native grasses and sensible grading to create lovely, sustainable hillsides. Your home, however, may be on the side of a hill which mankind has already graded in a sharper, less sustainable fashion, so terracing can help make it look more pleasing to the eye and help prevent landslides. It’s best to consult a professional landscaper on these points, as they will have some idea of the safety measures which need to occur to make your hillside land both beautiful and safe.
3. Try for low-maintenance.
Unless you love hiking, try to make sure your hillside is as low maintenance as possible. Add steps to easily access any decks, terraced gardens, etc, so you can access the parts of your property you may want to visit or give special attention. On the portions of your property you’d rather keep “hands off”, plant indigenous plants which will thrive without much care. Make sure to install a variety of plants – like shrubs, trees and ground cover. This will help your hillside retain more soil during the rainy season.
You can also install a dry creek bed in the “hands off” portions, to help prevent erosion. Also, if you have a rock outcropping with little to no soil, check with a landscaper. It may not be plantable and may actually be aiding the stability of your land.
4. Enjoy the view.
Install easy-to-access look out points around your property. Think about installing a bench alongside your steps, or a deck with a particularly pleasing view of the sunset to sit and get away from it all – besides, what’s the point of a hillside home if you don’t have a chance to enjoy the view?
5. Add hardscaping.
As mentioned above, easy to traverse steps to portions of your landscape which you want to access are a great idea, but why stop there? Install a deck with a barbecue for friends and/or family to gather and enjoy. Add a fire pit where you can roast marshmallows or enjoy fine company. Install a terrace with a traditional zen garden, or a vegetable or flower garden. Add a wooden patio under a sprawling oak. Get the most out of your land.
If you are a more adventurous sort, add rope ladder access to your deck or terrace, to give your home a tree house feel. 🙂 Just make sure a) it’s installed by a pro and b) there’s a soft spot below to land, in case of any missteps.
6. Consult a professional.
Hillside landscaping is not a “DIY” project. Always consult a professional landscaper knowledgable in Southern California hillsides and the appropriate regulations before embarking on your project. Hillsides are a very special beast and you do not want to start out terracing, adding decks and steps, building a retaining wall, etc, without professional assistance.
Here’s hoping you always get the most out of your landscape!
