If you have a sloped yard, you know the struggle. Mowing feels like a dangerous workout, rain turns your lawn into a miniature landslide, and good luck trying to put in a patio or a play area for the kids. But what if I told you that not only is there a way to reclaim that space, but it could also help keep annoying wildlife away?
As a wildlife removal expert, I see firsthand how sloped yards create unintended havens for all sorts of critters. Fortunately, with the right landscaping approach, you can turn that tricky incline into a functional, beautiful, and pest-resistant outdoor space. Let’s talk about how.
The Hidden Problems with Sloped Yards
1. Erosion and Drainage Issues
One of the biggest headaches with a sloped yard is water runoff. When it rains, soil and mulch wash away, leaving behind bare patches or messy clumps of debris. Worse yet, all that excess water can pool at the bottom of the slope, turning certain areas into a soggy, unusable mess.
2. A Magnet for Wildlife You Don’t Want
Sloped yards create the perfect environment for burrowing and nesting wildlife. Here are just a few common problems I’ve seen:
- Groundhogs and chipmunks dig extensive tunnel networks, weakening the ground and causing more erosion.
- Snakes love hiding in the tall grass and eroded crevices.
- Mosquitoes thrive in areas where runoff pools and sits stagnant.
- Raccoons and opossums use the dense, unkempt vegetation as a perfect hiding spot before sneaking onto decks and into garbage bins.
I once helped a homeowner who couldn’t figure out why they had so many groundhogs. Turns out, the loose, eroding soil on their hill was practically inviting them to dig in!
The Game-Changing Solution: Terracing with Retaining Walls
The best way to transform your sloped yard is through terracing with retaining walls. Not only does this method level out the space, but it also significantly reduces erosion and makes your yard more usable.
What is Terracing?
Terracing involves creating multiple flat levels on a slope, supported by retaining walls. Think of it like stairs for your yard, with each step acting as a usable, stable area for grass, gardens, or even a patio.
The Benefits of Terracing
- Stops soil erosion by breaking up the slope and keeping the soil in place.
- Improves drainage by directing water flow properly, reducing pooling and stagnant water.
- Creates usable space for entertaining, gardening, or play areas.
- Prevents burrowing animals by reinforcing the ground and making it difficult for them to dig.
I once helped a family whose backyard was so sloped that their kids couldn’t even play soccer without the ball rolling away. After installing retaining walls and terracing, they turned their yard into a functional space with a garden, fire pit, and even a small playset!
Wildlife-Proofing Your New Landscape
Once you’ve invested in terracing, don’t let wildlife undo your hard work. Here are some ways to keep critters from turning your new retaining walls and terraces into their personal playground.
1. Reinforce Against Burrowers
Burrowing animals love loose dirt, and if your retaining walls aren’t properly reinforced, they’ll find ways to dig behind them. Use these methods to prevent that:
- Install a mesh barrier (like hardware cloth) beneath the soil to discourage digging.
- Use crushed stone or gravel instead of loose dirt behind the wall to make tunneling more difficult.
2. Choose Plants That Repel Wildlife
Some plants naturally deter common suburban pests. If you’re adding greenery to your terraces, consider these options:
- Lavender & marigolds – Deter rabbits and deer.
- Mint & rosemary – Keep away rodents and insects.
- Daffodils & alliums – Repel groundhogs and squirrels.
3. Avoid Attracting Unwanted Guests
- Keep compost and trash secure to avoid inviting raccoons and possums.
- Install proper drainage to prevent standing water (which breeds mosquitoes and attracts thirsty wildlife).
- Use motion-activated lights to deter nocturnal animals from hanging around.
Bonus Benefits: Curb Appeal & Property Value
Beyond the practical benefits, a well-terraced yard can dramatically improve the look and value of your home. Real estate experts agree that improved landscaping can boost property value by up to 15%.
A sloped, unusable yard can be a dealbreaker for potential buyers, but a beautifully terraced one? That’s a selling point. Plus, you get to enjoy it in the meantime!
Final Thoughts
Transforming your sloped yard doesn’t have to be a never-ending battle. With terracing and retaining walls, you can turn a frustrating incline into a gorgeous, functional space while also making it less inviting to wildlife.
If you’re ready to reclaim your yard but aren’t sure where to start, reach out to a professional to make sure your new outdoor space stays critter-free.
Your yard should be a place you enjoy, not a constant source of frustration. With the right approach, you can finally have a yard that works for you—not against you!
