5 Effective Tips to Keep Mulch on a Slope

Maintaining mulch on a sloped surface can be a challenging task due to the natural gravitational forces that cause the mulch to slide downhill. However, there are several methods and materials that can help keep mulch in place effectively. This blog post covers the best types of mulch for slopes, physical barriers like pegs, twine, and netting, and innovative techniques such as crimping and creating terraces. Each method is designed with the dual goals of soil nourishment and erosion control in mind. By leveraging these strategies, you can ensure your mulch stays put, keeping your garden or landscape both attractive and functional.

Choosing a Mulch

The type of mulch you choose plays a crucial role in how well it stays in place on a slope. Organic mulches like shredded bark, straw, and wood chips are popular choices due to their ability to decompose and enrich the soil over time. They also tend to interlock better than larger pieces, which helps them stay in place.

Inorganic options, such as rubber mulch or stones, offer durability but lack the nutrient benefits of organic mulches. Rubber mulch, for example, is less likely to be washed away due to its heavier weight but doesn’t provide the same soil benefits as organic options. Therefore, selecting the right type of mulch for your specific needs and environment is a primary step in maintaining mulch on a slope.

We Recommend

For most slopes, we recommend organic mulches like shredded bark or wood chips. These materials lock together, creating a mat-like effect that resists being washed away. They also decompose over time, enriching your soil with essential nutrients.

If you prefer something more permanent, consider rubber mulch. It doesn’t decompose and tends to stay in place due to its weight. However, remember that it won’t provide any nutrition to your soil. For steep slopes or areas prone to heavy rainfall, combining organic mulch with other securing methods may offer the best results.

Pegs and Twine

Pegs and twine are simple, effective tools for securing mulch on a slope. By embedding wooden or plastic pegs into the ground and stretching twine between them, you create a grid that holds the mulch in place.

This method is particularly useful for areas with light erosion. To set up, place the pegs at regular intervals across the slope and tie the twine tightly from peg to peg. This network helps to ‘catch’ the mulch, preventing it from sliding downhill while still allowing for water drainage.

Netting to Secure Mulch

Another highly effective method is using netting. Landscape netting, often made from biodegradable materials like jute, is spread over the mulch and secured to the ground with stakes. The netting provides a physical barrier that holds the mulch in place while allowing water and nutrients to permeate the soil below.

This technique is particularly beneficial for steep slopes or areas where erosion is more severe. Over time, the biodegradable netting will break down, integrated into the soil without needing removal or maintenance. This creates a seamless, sustainable solution.

Crimping or Punching Mulch

Crimping or punching is an innovative method where straw mulch is mechanically pressed into the soil. Using a crimper or roller, the straw is forced into the soil, creating a stable mulch layer that resists wind and water erosion.

This method is particularly effective for cover crops or when large areas need to be mulched, such as in agricultural settings. The crimping process helps to create a more cohesive layer of mulch, which remains in place more effectively compared to simply laying it on top of the soil.

We Recommend

We highly recommend using netting, especially on steeper slopes or where erosion is a significant concern. The additional barrier that netting provides can make a substantial difference in keeping mulch in place under challenging conditions.

For smaller or mildly sloped areas, pegs, and twine might be sufficient. This cost-effective and straightforward method allows for easy application and maintenance while still providing adequate protection against erosion.

Terraces and Mulch

An advanced method for dealing with slopes is creating terraces. Terracing involves building retaining walls of various heights down the slope, effectively creating a series of level surfaces. These terraces act as barriers to runoff, making it easier to maintain mulch.

Pairing terracing with mulch provides a dual benefit: the terraces reduce the speed of water runoff, and the mulch adds organic matter to the soil while helping retain moisture. This combination is particularly effective for large, steep areas where erosion could be a severe issue.

Future Prospects

Keeping mulch on a slope involves a combination of selecting the right type of mulch and employing methods to secure it in place. Here’s a summarized comparison to help you choose the best method for your needs.