It may not be well known but Central and North Florida have a lot of hills and steep slopes. How do you landscape a front or back yard that has more than a 15% incline or elevation drop? When a property is difficult to walk across or you have to walk or climb back up with effort, it’s natural to avoid going out or using the area.
The best way is to terrace the yard to make walking across your property easier and safer and much more enjoyable to use.
Start with determining your different levels and the size needed for recreational or utility needs (pool, play area for kids, seating area, cooking), and last,where will the pathways go to get from the top to the bottom.
Decide on the views you would like to take advantage of. Place seats in different areas to make a good decision. The example shown had a neighboring house that required blocking to get privacy and the views to the east had wonderful elevations and a goat farm to enjoy.
One to three terraced levels are adequate for most home or DIY projects.
Next, decide on what material to use for pathways to create paths at least 3’ - 4’ wide and materials that are non-slippery.
Add any necessary ramps or sloped elevations at 1:12 or 1 inch of rise per 12 inches of horizontal run - that's roughly an 8% slope.
You can have a flat or horizontal patio at any terrace level for seating but provide a structure or wall to provide stability. Check with local building codes to see if permits are required for walls over 18”.
Make sure any mulch used in garden beds are stabilized by metal or block edging, so it doesn’t run off.
Slopes are the perfect for adding a water feature such as a crick, dry riverbed, or waterfall.
Design and install your garden beds and landscapes around your pathways and terraces.
Make sure to contact your builder or engineering firm before starting if you need help.