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
Marsha Charles
Consistent top listing and selling agent receiving Chairman's Club award for superior sales achievement almost every year while associated with Preferred Properties, Inc. Consistently receive the International Presidents Premier award for sales volume since joining Coldwell Banker Realty and ranked in the top 1% of agents in Connecticut and Westchester County. In 2021 I received the International Society of Excellence award for sales volume in excess of $100,000,000. I have been named a Top Five Sales Agent for customer satisfaction since 2010 (longer than any other agent in Connecticut) and listed in Connecticut Magazine. Named one of the Top Agents in Connecticut by Real Trends since 2018.
I work with sellers and buyers and also have a strong understanding to needs of those who are relocating . Background and experience in advertising, public relations and photography offer creative and innovative marketing plans for sellers.
Realtor designations include: Graduate Real Estate Institute, Certified Residential Specialist, Certified Residential Marketing Specialist, and Pricing Strategy Advisor. Served as President of New Canaan Board of Realtors (two terms), Director (three terms) and currently serve on Professional Standards Committee. Named Realtor of the year by the New Canaan Board of Realtors in 1994and again in 2022.
Married and mother of other of four children who attended and graduated from the New Canaan School System, Member of New Canaan, Darien, Greenwich and Statewide MLS systems. Areas covered include New Canaan, Darien, Greenwich, Rowayton, Norwalk, Wilton and all of lower Fairfield County.
