Pro tip: A heavy rain in my old Seattle garden washed away all my topsoil and made me rethink everything.

I was using a basic raised bed with no cover, and after one big storm, I lost about three inches of soil and half my carrot seedlings. Now I always use a thick layer of straw mulch and put a simple wooden frame with chicken wire over new beds to protect them. Has anyone else found a good way to stop soil from washing away on a slope?

3 comments

3 Comments

susan_bell1mo ago

Try terracing the slope with rocks or wood instead of just covering it.

nora_walker571mo ago

My neighbor used old bricks for her terraces. It looked great and held up through a heavy rain last spring.

blair5971mo ago

Oh good call. Terracing actually helps with drainage and stops erosion way better than just mulch or plants. You could use old railroad ties for big steps, or stack flat stones for a more natural look. Even small terraces with logs from fallen trees can make a huge difference. It's more work upfront but saves your slope long term.