STAIRS IN THE GARDEN

Design.

Steps and stairs in the garden carry quite an important functional load. They connect the areas of the site of different levels to each other. But they can be viewed not only from the functional point of view. Skillful design can transform them into decorative elements that will largely determine the overall look of the garden.

Unfortunately, not all areas are flat. There are also areas with very uneven terrain. Of course, it is very difficult to completely level an area that is located on a slope. And only by connecting your rich imagination, you can turn this disadvantage into a dignity. And a ladder will help in this, which is necessary primarily on land plots with a rather steep elevation difference, since it provides an easy and safe approach to hard-to-reach areas or places.

In some gardens there is at least one place where you often need to go down or go up from one level to another. Two or three steps are just enough for such a transition to another part of the garden, for an "elevated approach" to a gazebo, bench or sculpture. In addition, if the house or courtyard is at different levels, then in this case you will need steps.
But not only on multilevel areas steps come in handy - even out of the blue stairs or individual steps will not be superfluous. The flat terrain looks rather monotonous and boring, which cannot be said about different descents and ascents, even just one or two steps, which will bring a certain dynamics into the space around you and, undoubtedly, will change the appearance of the garden.
In any case, a miniature ladder, through which you can climb higher and survey your possessions, will not hurt.

The architectural style, as well as the engineering solution of the stairs, largely depends on where they are supposed to be placed. It is important to correctly determine the dimensions and proportions of not only the entire staircase, but also its individual steps.
The steps must be made commensurate with the width and steepness of the rise. Naturally, all steps must be of the same height, which in turn will avoid possible injury. Keep in mind also such a detail as the slope of the steps, which is advisable to make so that the water after the rain does not stagnate on the steps, but flows down to the ground. The slope is best done about one to two percent of the tread depth.
The width of the stairs usually goes according to the width of the paths that it connects to each other. It is best to build wide, gentle stairs in the garden, since a steep and narrow approach can spoil the walk quite a lot. In addition, a wide staircase looks much nicer than a narrow one. On the wide steps, you can place small trees or beautifully flowering and pleasantly smelling flowers in pots. But at the same time, the part of the stairs left for the passage should not be less than sixty centimeters - this is the minimum that is necessary for the passage of one person.
In addition, garden stairs should not be made too long. In such areas, which are located on steep slopes, several spans will have to be built, on which rest areas will be located.

The question may also arise: what is the best number of steps for a staircase? However, there is simply no definite answer to this question. Some people think that there should be at least three or four, because one or two steps are simply not perceived as a full-fledged staircase and sometimes are not noticed. Some, on the contrary, prefer gentle slopes, not wanting to have high terraces, since they require the construction of retaining walls. In any case, stairs, in which there are more than fifteen steps, must necessarily be separated by a wide landing. And if their height is more than seventy centimeters, then they must be equipped with a rail. In general, it is advisable to equip any staircase on a steep slope with a handrail, at least even on one side.

Availability and security.

Materials for stairs are selected very different: it can be natural stone, and concrete blocks, and brick, wood, monolithic concrete, and so on. A combination of materials is also possible. But the main determining factor is still the general style of the house or garden. For example, a wide staircase made of granite and which leads to a modest wooden house looks a little ridiculous, exactly, as well as vice versa - a simple staircase leading to a luxurious house. Slabs made of natural stone or wood are well suited for romance. It will look more beautiful if the paths and recreation areas are covered with the same material. Most often, the front surface of the step is made from the slabs, and the base is made of concrete. The tree must be impregnated with an antiseptic. The natural effect emphasizes the lateral displacement of the steps relative to each other.

The main points to pay close attention to when building stairs are accessibility and safety. The ladder must be reliable in any weather, so it is better not to make steps made of wood or clinker in dark places where it is difficult to see them - in rainy weather they can easily slip on. In addition, it is undesirable to make the steps absolutely smooth: in wet weather they can also slip easily. In damp corners for stairs, stone with a rough texture is best. These can be concrete slabs with a processed, rough surface.
The lighting of the stairs is also of great importance, especially if it is more actively used in the dark. At this time of day, every rung of the staircase should be clearly visible. Therefore, the lighting system should be thoughtfully built, as well as the laying of the electrical cable. Most often, the lamps are directed down to the ground. They will not blind the person passing by and at the same time give enough light so that you can confidently walk up the steps.
We should also talk about the design of the stairs. After all, there are as many stairs as there are gardens. The design options are countless - from the combination of materials, stone colors to complex paving patterns. One of the possible design options can be this: bushes and climbing or creeping plants are planted between the steps, which will soften the hard lines.

Compatibility with the style of the home is also an important detail. A wooden staircase will fit seamlessly into a rustic garden. Monolithic concrete stairs, which are decorated with bricks or tiles, are best suited for a Victorian garden. Wrought iron railings will also be in place.
If you have tastefully equipped your staircase, supplemented it with beautiful flowerpots, flowers in pots, thought through the lighting or illumination wisely, then your staircase will undoubtedly become one of the important elements of your garden, but you can quite consider yourself a professional. And the ups and downs will give your garden that unusual charm that will give your garden its individuality and originality.

How to make steps at a summer cottage

Not everyone can boast of a perfectly flat suburban area without height differences. And sometimes gardeners make tiered gardens intentionally to make the landscape more interesting and the garden more picturesque. In this case, it is quite difficult to do without steps that will help you move between the tiers. Such steps can perform not only a practical, but also a decorative function. If you decide to organize steps in your garden, we offer you a selection of ideas to help you complete your plan.

Consider the first version of the steps, which are suitable for large gentle slopes, since each step is quite wide.

The frame of the staircase is made of large wooden beams, which are assembled into a one-piece structure using appropriate fasteners. The voids inside the timber formwork can be filled with pebbles or rubble.

Such steps look original; water does not accumulate on their surface, as it seeps through the backfill. The disadvantages include the need to periodically add rubble, since it can be poured over the sides.

If you liked the technology described above, but you need a more compact and simpler ladder, the bars can be replaced with boards, and the length of the steps can be reduced. A ladder made using this technology can be made curved more easily.

If you want to approach the construction of stairs in the garden thoroughly, pay attention to stronger and more durable materials, brick and concrete.

There are several approaches here. So, for example, the outer walls of the steps can be made of bricks, the cavities can be filled with rubble, and concrete slabs can be laid on top.

There is also another option. The steps are poured out of concrete and the leading edge is bricked. In this case, you will have to use formwork. It makes sense to use this approach if each step is long enough.

If you want to be original, you can use railway sleepers to make the steps. With the help of sleepers, you can also pave a garden path. Pour the gaps between them with a solution or cover with large rubble. It turns out pretty interesting.

Sleepers can also be used instead of formwork for pouring concrete steps. The option is not much different from the first, but such steps will look more original, especially if the sleepers are old.

Recently, gardeners have abandoned concrete-filled garden paths in favor of paving slabs. Dismantling old walkways can leave you with many large pieces of concrete that can also be used to create original garden steps.

If money is not a problem, the steps can be made from stone slabs. True, for this you need to have good skills in construction, or use the services of professional builders with the appropriate equipment.

You can decorate ordinary concrete steps with ceramic tile shards. Such a staircase will look more fun and interesting.

Remember that steps do not have to be geometrically perfect. Here's an example of how you can create an interesting staircase using randomly placed concrete blocks.

It is difficult to do without steps for ascent and descent, in the case when the dwelling is located on a slope. It is important that they are decorative elements that harmoniously fit into the landscape of your summer cottage.

For the device of the stairs, you must first select the soil on the slope by making steps. Then set the bowstrings made from planks on the sides.

Protect the earthen steps in front with wooden risers. Such a ladder is intended for personal use, and bowstrings with risers can be made from any wood, but better - from aspen or larch, which are resistant to decay. Using wood of other species, pre-treat it with a protective agent against decay - an antiseptic.

Scheme for the manufacture of steps of a staircase designed for one pedestrian.

To fix the risers in a vertical position, drive pointed pegs from 50x50 mm bars into the ground and fasten them with nails, preferably stainless. The pegs should be 2.5 times longer than the riser height.

Fill the cracks formed behind the risers with soil and tamp it well.

At the final stage of making the stairs, lay the treads. To do this, you can use gravel, finely chopped bark, paving stones and even turf.

Staircase made of natural stone. Plants characteristic of the alpine slide make its contours softer and more natural.

As steps, you can use tree trunks, which will add "naturalness" to the staircase. Even more practical are steps made of old railway sleepers.

THE MAIN THING IS RELIABILITY!

Keep in mind that if the stairs are too steep, climbing them will be tedious and slipping on very gentle ones. Experience has shown
It calls for the risers to have a height of 100 to 125 mm. The steps must be at least 300 mm deep so that when descending the stairs, the foot is completely on them, and the heel does not touch the edge of the step located above.

As for the width of the stairs, for one person it should be at least 60 cm, and for two - at least 1.5 m, which guarantees convenience and safety.

Garden stairs not only make it easier to move around the site, but also give the garden a sense of completeness, structuredness. If you are thinking about building a garden staircase with your own hands, there are a few things to consider. This is what will be discussed in this article.

Not every staircase can be built without knowledge and experience in this area. Certain structures require a serious foundation, the preparation of which can only be done by professionals. Therefore, for the construction of garden stairs with a height of more than one meter, it is recommended to either hire a specialist, or buy a ready-made staircase made of wood or metal, which will only need to be installed.

In general, when building a garden staircase, the following principle must be observed: steps are dug into the ground, a concrete foundation is poured inside, steps from the selected material are placed on it. The choice of material for a garden ladder depends on its purpose.

What materials to make a garden staircase?

Concrete, brick, paving stones, natural stone are the favorite and most durable materials for outdoor construction. Also, wood or metal structures are used for the construction of garden stairs. Moreover, the metal can be used for the manufacture of the entire staircase, and can also serve only as a frame to give stability, for example, a wooden staircase.

The easiest option for a garden ladder

The easiest way to build a garden staircase, which does not require serious efforts (including the foundation), is to drive planks into the ground as risers, filling the space between the risers with rubble. The crushed stone will serve as steps. Of course, this option is as simple as it is short-lived.

Building a garden staircase that will serve you faithfully for many years

The durable garden staircase consists of a concrete foundation, stone steps and risers. The foundation plays a decisive role in how stable and durable your staircase will be. Risers can be made of bricks, concrete or paving stones, the space inside which is filled with rubble. On top are steps made of sandstone, slate, etc. and are fixed with cement.

The combination of materials when building a garden staircase

When building a garden staircase, you can successfully combine various materials, and new technologies in construction provide us with various designs with which it is quite easy to independently build this work of building art. However, knowledge and experience in this area can still make your ladder more durable and, most importantly, safer. Before starting construction work, consult a specialist who can give you some practical advice regarding your specific project.

DIY garden ladder options

Wooden garden stairs

Stone garden stairs

Concrete garden stairs

Garden ladder made of various materials

Metal garden stairs

Paving stone garden ladder

There are summer cottages with very uneven terrain. Leveling the ground on a slope can be very difficult. But this is by no means a drawback, if you use a little imagination. Have you got a plot with a slope? Do not despair! My friends, today we'll talk about how to make steps and stairs in the garden.

On my site, I also planned steps, because he is with us. There are plenty of ideas! Eh turn around !!! In this article I will tell you what material the steps are from, how to calculate the dimensions of the steps and much more!

By themselves stairs and steps Of course, they carry an important functional load in the garden - they connect the different-level zones of the site with each other. The dimensions used in the construction of stairs inside and outside the house are slightly different from those used for garden stairs.

Garden stairs width usually depends on the width of the tracks that it connects to each other. It is worth noting, however, that it is better to have wide, gentle stairs in the garden, since a steep and narrow approach can pretty much ruin your walk through the garden.

Garden ladder shouldn't be very long. If the slope is rather steep, it is better to build a structure with several “rest zones”. This will make it easier to climb (walk) and add charm to your garden landscape.

Materials for garden stairs the most diverse are selected: natural stone, brick, concrete blocks or monolithic concrete, wood. Or a combination of these materials. But the determining factor should be the overall style of the house or garden. Let's say a wide granite staircase leading to a modest wooden house looks, to put it mildly, ridiculous. Remember this!
For those who prefer modern design, it is better to choose concrete: artificial concrete slabs are now produced in a variety of colors.

Availability and security- the main points that should be paid attention to when building stairs. They must be reliable in any weather. In places that are usually in the shade and damp, make stairs of stone or concrete slabs with a special rough surface. My boys, like any other kids, of course, love to run up the stairs. So, whoever has children should take this into account especially.

Construction of a garden staircase.

- First you need to calculate how many steps there will be at the stairs, calculate their height and length. Let's figure it out! The length of a person's stride is approximately 62-64 cm, and a comfortable leg lift is 30-32 cm.Proceeding from this, the tread and rise are determined as follows: 2a + b = 64 cm or a + 6 = 47 cm, where a is the height of the step , b is the width of the step.

- On the slope, you need to outline the contours of the steps. This can be done with any bulk material, for example, cereals, flour. Then you need to remove the top layer of the earth. It is important not to forget about the slight slope to divert rainwater flows.

- We construct a formwork from boards, repeating the contours of the future staircase, according to the available calculations and measurements. Having installed the boards, you need to drive them a little into the ground by knocking on them with a hammer. Do not forget to check the correct positioning of the formwork using the building level.

- A plank should be placed along the front edge of each step so that you can see how to make stairs in the garden... Then the ground under the future steps must be properly tamped, you can fill in rubble or bricks.

- Then a cement solution is made (one part of cement plus four parts of sand) are thoroughly mixed, with the gradual addition of water until a homogeneous mass is obtained. Then crushed stone is added to the mass, and everything is thoroughly mixed again.

- When the solution is ready, the base of the steps needs to be moistened. Having filled in the solution, it must be pierced, so to speak, with a shovel, so that no voids remain. Then you need to level the mixture with a lath with even edges (rule).

- Leave the structure for a day until it solidifies completely. The formwork can be removed, and the edges of the stairs can be decorated with stone or wood.

As you can see, making a staircase in the garden yourself is not at all difficult.

The ladder is ready! You can decorate it by giving it a slightly "aged look" so that it merges into a single whole with the landscape of the site. Harmony is needed everywhere!

Blooming steps on the site.

Having built the steps, it is necessary to give them a finished look so that they finally, so to speak, fit into the landscape of the garden. Let's take a look at a few ways to help decorate your lovely staircase.

1. For example, you can decorate the spaces between the steps (risers) with plants. Skillful use of this technique will help not only to fit them into any landscape, but also make such stairs the best decorative elements of the garden. The range of plants used in our conditions is not to say very wide, but if you wish, you can pick up something. Here, for example, several types of sedum are suitable. And of course, friends, we need to make adjustments for local operating conditions.

It is clear that you cannot blindly copy what is shown in the photo. The design of the steps for Russia with its snowy winters should be somewhat different. But we're talking about general principles!

2. To plant plants along the edges of the steps: creeping veronica, various types and varieties of primroses, felt chickweed, seaside armeria, mountain gerbil, obrieta, Carpathian bell, various carnations, three-lobed liverwort, saxifrage, awl-shaped phlox - this is just a short list of undersized flowers. Heathers and lavender (dwarf) look amazing at the steps.

Different types of cereals will look great. You can plant low-growing shrubs such as boxwood, lingonberry, honeysuckle, etc. Let's not forget about the beautiful host!

3. Place various animal figures next to each other, clay pots, again with flowers or small stones, jugs. Of course, all this should not interfere with walking up the stairs.

4. Decorate recreation areas with small architectural forms (statues, mini fountains). Put a bench or chair and "forget" them in a secluded spot.

The owners of the site on the slope are in an ambiguous position. Standard techniques for placing beds are unacceptable here, and the arrangement of such a site involves significant material costs. However, after studying the existing approaches to registration, the owner most often comes to the conclusion about the advantages of such a situation. Landscaping of the site on the slope will help to develop and translate into reality specialists. The presented ideas are capable of transforming the territory, making it unique, immersing it in the beauty of mountain landscapes.

Strengthening the slopes on the site with your own hands

Improvement begins with work to strengthen the slopes on the site. This will prevent further destructive processes that can damage buildings and landscaping.

Preparatory actions

When strengthening slopes, various methods and structures are used. Landscaping allows you to use stones and concrete blocks, biomats and gabions, logs and lawn grates in the preparation of the site. To properly strengthen the slopes, it is necessary to study and calculate the following points:

• how close the groundwater is;
• what is the slope of the slope;
• geological features of the soil;
• is there a danger of erosion of the site when the reservoir is located nearby;
• take into account the soil pressure on the slope;
• decide on the material for strengthening;
• designate an area in need of strengthening.

With a slight slope, it allows you to solve the problem of fixing the soil by planting trees and shrubs with a developed root system. With a significant slope, terracing or the use of geotextiles will be required.

Ways to strengthen slopes

The simplest and most inexpensive landscape design option for strengthening a slope on a site is planting plants with a developed root system. This solution is acceptable if the slope is small and its area is small. Plants are planted in cells that act as a reinforcing structure. Further, the developed root system is intertwined with fastening elements and prevents landslides or soil erosion. Juniper is in the lead with this method of strengthening the soil; it is also recommended to plant Chinese blackberries, lilacs and hawthorns.

Slopes at the summer cottage are often reinforced with fences made of concrete slabs, sandstone, brick or limestone. The advantage of this landscape design method is as follows:

a high level of resistance to external destructive factors;

• does not require significant care efforts;
• does not interfere with the growth of green spaces;
• durability of the structure.

Such fences are erected subject to certain conditions:

• a solid foundation is laid;
• the minimum height of the fence is 1 m;
• the thickness of the fence is 1/3 of the height;
• mandatory equipment of the drainage system (water flowing down the slope should not wash away the structure)
• fences are erected from the bottom up;
• it is recommended to build a cascade structure;
• it is necessary to provide for a slight slope towards the slope.

The landscape design of the site provides an opportunity to arrange a similar structure with flower beds, decorative stairs, and lanterns.

Another option for strengthening the slope on the site is the use of stones and logs. They are dug into the ground, having previously studied the type of soil and the state of the surface. In this case, do not forget about the aesthetic appearance of the site and take care of the availability of drainage. This inexpensive landscaping method is acceptable on both small and large slopes.

Modern developments in landscape design suggest using geotextiles in the arrangement of a site on a slope. This product in rolls, consisting of polyester and polypropylene fibers, has the following advantages:

• waterproofness;
• protection of soil from freezing;
• when water converges, it prevents mixing of soil layers;
• plastic;
• has a high resistance to damage;
• ease of laying on the ground.

Another option that is acceptable when developing landscape design on a slope is laying geomats. This waterproof material consists of polypropylene grids, superimposed on each other and connected by exposure to high temperatures. Geomats have the following features:

• do not contain toxic substances;
• UV resistance;
• maintaining the natural beauty of the landscape;
• are not afraid of aggressive substances;
• resistant to low and high temperatures;
• easy to install.

The presented methods of landscape design when strengthening the slope can be done with your own hands or you can resort to the help of professionals. Their choice depends on the preferences of the owner and further plans for the arrangement of the site.

Design options

The landscape design of the site on the slope opens up wide prospects for the realization of vivid fantasies and bold ideas. Considering the need for serious financial investments in landscaping, the approach to planning a site on a slope requires special care and thoughtfulness. The development of landscape design works is necessarily preceded by a study of the technical indicators of water supply and soil characteristics. The location of future outbuildings and recreation areas deserves special attention. Already starting from their location, they plan to build future terraces, flights of stairs, retaining walls and other elements of landscape design. When landscaping a site on a slope, its location relative to the cardinal points must be taken into account.

Terracing

When deciding to use terracing in the landscape design of a site on a slope, give up excessively long retaining walls in a straight line. This design will give the impression of a huge staircase. Landscaping experts recommend placing terraces in chaotic steps or cascades. This will create a painterly general look.

There are winding paths or paths between the terraces, and several steps are designed on steep climbs. Retaining walls on the site are made of various materials: natural stone and brick, wood and concrete. It is better to equip a steep ascent with retaining walls using cement mortar; dry masonry will be enough in a flat place.

Original ideas in the design of retaining walls on the site are only welcome. Avoid straight lines, rounded shapes will provide smooth transitions to the relief and visually make them less conspicuous. Departure from standard approaches will allow terraces with various functional purposes. Landscaping allows you to locate in separate areas, vegetable beds and plantings of shrubs. Combining them with winding paths will visually create a single picture of incompatible things.

The location of the terrace on wet ground presupposes the presence of a crushed stone drainage dump. It is located between the wall and the ground in a width of 10-15 cm. It is recommended to supplement the masonry with scraps of pipes, which will allow moisture to escape outside and prevent it from accumulating behind the retaining wall. The lack of such protective measures will provoke a rapid destruction of the structure.

Arrangement of paths and stairs

An indispensable attribute of landscape design are neat paths that help to achieve an organic connection between the terraces. To ensure compatibility, it is better to make them from a similar material.

Important ! Large decorative elements, be they stones, tiles or circles of a tree, are capable of creating good visibility and a vivid perception of the path.

The winding shape of the path hides the steepness of the slope, while the serpentine, on the contrary, emphasizes it. Following the rules of landscape design of a site on a slope, it is better to emphasize the bends of paths with low trees, shrubs or evergreens. A ladder on a steep slope of the site is required. In width, it can correspond to the path that continues it or be a little narrower, but not less than 60 cm. If the staircase has many steps, it is better to separate them with platforms. It is advisable to equip them in places where the direction of travel changes. With a sufficient size, the playground is decorated with a bench, an elegant statue or an original flowerpot. Landscaping experts recommend that a staircase located in a shady place be made of building materials of a lighter shade.

Remember! The beauty of landscape design must be combined with safety; choose non-slip material for paths and stairs.

Thoughtful landscape design will provide comfort during evening walks with the help of competent lighting. There are many ways to design it, and it will not be difficult to choose an option that matches the general style.

Site floristry

Choosing the concept of floristry, the style of the mountainous area will be the best option for landscape design. In this case, the location of the territory relative to the cardinal points must be taken into account. In this aspect, the site on the northern slope has its advantages, due to the possibility of decorating it with moisture-loving plants, accustomed to shady location. For the south side, grasses and flowers that can withstand heat and drought are more suitable.

Landscaping is developed in such a way that the planted plants have different flowering periods. Tulips, hyacinths and crocuses will be the first to please the owners in early spring. They can be replaced by decorative bows, Californian poppies and marigolds, and autumn will delight you with bright colors of asters and chrysanthemums. Planting perennial plants will make gardening easier.

Trees on a plot with a slope are planted in a special way according to the rules of landscape design. If the house is at the top, next to it are high plantings in the form of thuja, spruce or pyramidal poplar. Barberry or lilac will help to create an interesting composition.

Please note! Planted trees and shrubs should not cover the house.

Lower plants are found further down the slope. Evergreen shrubs and colorful flower beds are capable of giving nobility and sophistication. Juniper, magnolia, boxwood will be appropriate here. The region in which the site is located also plays a role. Therefore, when choosing green spaces, take into account the peculiarities of the climatic conditions of your area.

The basic rules for landscape design of a site on a slope are as follows:

• correctly organize the division into zones;
• equip strong retaining walls;
• protect the site from soil erosion with the help of a competent drainage system;

The owners of the site on the slope are in an ambiguous position. Standard techniques for placing beds are unacceptable here, and the arrangement of such a site involves significant material costs. However, after studying the existing approaches to registration, the owner most often comes to the conclusion about the advantages of such a situation. Landscaping of the site on the slope will help to develop and translate into reality specialists. The presented ideas are capable of transforming the territory, making it unique, immersing it in the beauty of mountain landscapes.

Improvement begins with work to strengthen the slopes on the site. This will prevent further destructive processes that can damage buildings and landscaping.

Preparatory actions

When strengthening slopes, various methods and structures are used. Landscaping allows you to use stones and concrete blocks, biomats and gabions, logs and lawn grates in the preparation of the site. To properly strengthen the slopes, it is necessary to study and calculate the following points:

• how close the groundwater is;
• what is the slope of the slope;
• geological features of the soil;
• is there a danger of erosion of the site when the reservoir is located nearby;
• take into account the soil pressure on the slope;
• decide on the material for strengthening;
• designate an area in need of strengthening.

With a slight slope, landscape design allows you to solve the problem of fixing the soil by planting trees and shrubs with a developed root system. With a significant slope, terracing or the use of geotextiles will be required.

Ways to strengthen slopes

The simplest and most inexpensive landscape design option for strengthening a slope on a site is planting plants with a developed root system. This solution is acceptable if the slope is small and its area is small. Plants are planted in cells that act as a reinforcing structure. Further, the developed root system is intertwined with fastening elements and prevents landslides or soil erosion. Juniper is in the lead with this method of strengthening the soil; it is also recommended to plant Chinese blackberries, lilacs and hawthorns.

Slopes at the summer cottage are often reinforced with fences made of concrete slabs, sandstone, brick or limestone. The advantage of this landscape design method is as follows:

a high level of resistance to external destructive factors;

• does not require significant care efforts;
• does not interfere with the growth of green spaces;
• durability of the structure.

Such fences are erected subject to certain conditions:

• a solid foundation is laid;
• the minimum height of the fence is 1 m;
• the thickness of the fence is 1/3 of the height;
• mandatory equipment of the drainage system (water flowing down the slope should not wash away the structure)
• fences are erected from the bottom up;
• it is recommended to build a cascade structure;
• it is necessary to provide for a slight slope towards the slope.

The landscape design of the site provides an opportunity to arrange a similar structure with flower beds, decorative stairs, and lanterns.

Another option for strengthening the slope on the site is the use of stones and logs. They are dug into the ground, having previously studied the type of soil and the state of the surface. In this case, do not forget about the aesthetic appearance of the site and take care of the availability of drainage. This inexpensive landscaping method is acceptable on both small and large slopes.

Modern developments in landscape design suggest using geotextiles in the arrangement of a site on a slope. This product in rolls, consisting of polyester and polypropylene fibers, has the following advantages:

• waterproofness;
• protection of soil from freezing;
• when water converges, it prevents mixing of soil layers;
• plastic;
• has a high resistance to damage;
• ease of laying on the ground.

Another option that is acceptable when developing landscape design on a slope is laying geomats. This waterproof material consists of polypropylene grids, superimposed on each other and connected by exposure to high temperatures. Geomats have the following features:

• do not contain toxic substances;
• UV resistance;
• maintaining the natural beauty of the landscape;
• are not afraid of aggressive substances;
• resistant to low and high temperatures;
• easy to install.

The presented methods of landscape design when strengthening the slope can be done with your own hands or you can resort to the help of professionals. Their choice depends on the preferences of the owner and further plans for the arrangement of the site.

Design options

The landscape design of the site on the slope opens up wide prospects for the realization of vivid fantasies and bold ideas. Considering the need for serious financial investments in landscaping, the approach to planning a site on a slope requires special care and thoughtfulness. The development of landscape design works is necessarily preceded by a study of the technical indicators of water supply and soil characteristics. The location of future outbuildings and recreation areas deserves special attention. Already starting from their location, they plan to build future terraces, flights of stairs, retaining walls and other elements of landscape design. When landscaping a site on a slope, its location relative to the cardinal points must be taken into account.

Terracing

When deciding to use terracing in the landscape design of a site on a slope, give up excessively long retaining walls in a straight line. This design will give the impression of a huge staircase. Landscaping experts recommend placing terraces in chaotic steps or cascades. This will create a painterly general look.

There are winding paths or paths between the terraces, and several steps are designed on steep climbs. Retaining walls on the site are made of various materials: natural stone and brick, wood and concrete. It is better to equip a steep ascent with retaining walls using cement mortar; dry masonry will be enough in a flat place.

Original ideas in the design of retaining walls on the site are only welcome. Avoid straight lines, rounded shapes will provide smooth transitions to the relief and visually make them less conspicuous. Departure from standard approaches will allow terraces with various functional purposes. Landscaping allows you to place flower beds, vegetable beds and plantings of shrubs in separate areas. Combining them with winding paths will visually create a single picture of incompatible things.

The location of the terrace on wet ground presupposes the presence of a crushed stone drainage dump. It is located between the wall and the ground in a width of 10-15 cm. It is recommended to supplement the masonry with scraps of pipes, which will allow moisture to escape outside and prevent it from accumulating behind the retaining wall. The lack of such protective measures will provoke a rapid destruction of the structure.

Arrangement of paths and stairs

An indispensable attribute of landscape design are neat paths that help to achieve an organic connection between the terraces. To ensure compatibility, it is better to make them from a similar material.

The winding shape of the path hides the steepness of the slope, while the serpentine, on the contrary, emphasizes it. Following the rules of landscape design of a site on a slope, it is better to emphasize the bends of paths with low trees, shrubs or evergreens.

A ladder on a steep slope of the site is required. In width, it can correspond to the path that continues it or be a little narrower, but not less than 60 cm. If the staircase has many steps, it is better to separate them with platforms. It is advisable to equip them in places where the direction of travel changes. With a sufficient size, the playground is decorated with a bench, an elegant statue or an original flowerpot. Landscaping experts recommend that a staircase located in a shady place be made of building materials of a lighter shade.

Thoughtful landscape design will provide comfort during evening walks with the help of competent lighting. There are many ways to design it, and it will not be difficult to choose an option that matches the general style.

Site floristry

Choosing the concept of floristry, the style of the mountainous area will be the best option for landscape design. In this case, the location of the territory relative to the cardinal points must be taken into account. In this aspect, the site on the northern slope has its advantages, due to the possibility of decorating it with moisture-loving plants, accustomed to shady location. For the south side, grasses and flowers that can withstand heat and drought are more suitable.

Landscaping is developed in such a way that the planted plants have different flowering periods. Tulips, hyacinths and crocuses will be the first to please the owners in early spring. They can be replaced by decorative bows, Californian poppies and marigolds, and autumn will delight you with bright colors of asters and chrysanthemums. Planting perennial plants will make gardening easier.

Trees on a plot with a slope are planted in a special way according to the rules of landscape design. If the house is at the top, next to it are high plantings in the form of thuja, spruce or pyramidal poplar. Barberry or lilac will help to create an interesting composition.

Lower plants are found further down the slope. Evergreen shrubs and colorful flower beds are capable of giving nobility and sophistication. Juniper, magnolia, boxwood will be appropriate here. The region in which the site is located also plays a role. Therefore, when choosing green spaces, take into account the peculiarities of the climatic conditions of your area.

The basic rules for landscape design of a site on a slope are as follows:

• correctly organize the division into zones;
• equip strong retaining walls;
• protect the site from soil erosion with the help of a competent drainage system;
• when arranging places for recreation, take into account the wind rose.

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Garden stairs not only make it easier to move around the site, but also give the garden a sense of completeness, structuredness. If you are thinking about building a garden staircase with your own hands, there are a few things to consider. This is what will be discussed in this article.

Not every staircase can be built without knowledge and experience in this area. Certain structures require a serious foundation, the preparation of which can only be done by professionals. Therefore, for the construction of garden stairs with a height of more than one meter, it is recommended to either hire a specialist, or buy a ready-made staircase made of wood or metal, which will only need to be installed.

In general, when building a garden staircase, the following principle must be observed: steps are dug into the ground, a concrete foundation is poured inside, steps from the selected material are placed on it. The choice of material for a garden ladder depends on its purpose.

What materials to make a garden staircase?

Concrete, brick, paving stones, natural stone are the favorite and most durable materials for outdoor construction. Also, wood or metal structures are used for the construction of garden stairs. Moreover, the metal can be used for the manufacture of the entire staircase, and can also serve only as a frame to give stability, for example, a wooden staircase.

The easiest option for a garden ladder

The easiest way to build a garden staircase, which does not require serious efforts (including the foundation), is to drive planks into the ground as risers, filling the space between the risers with rubble. The crushed stone will serve as steps. Of course, this option is as simple as it is short-lived.

Building a garden staircase that will serve you faithfully for many years

The durable garden staircase consists of a concrete foundation, stone steps and risers. The foundation plays a decisive role in how stable and durable your staircase will be. Risers can be made of bricks, concrete or paving stones, the space inside which is filled with rubble. On top are steps made of sandstone, slate, etc. and are fixed with cement.

The combination of materials when building a garden staircase

When building a garden staircase, you can successfully combine various materials, and new technologies in construction provide us with various designs with which it is quite easy to independently build this work of building art. However, knowledge and experience in this area can still make your ladder more durable and, most importantly, safer. Before starting construction work, consult a specialist who can give you some practical advice regarding your specific project.

DIY garden ladder options

Wooden garden stairs

Stone garden stairs

Concrete garden stairs

Garden ladder made of various materials

Metal garden stairs

Paving stone garden ladder

Wooden garden ladder

Clinker brick garden staircase

Fired brick garden staircase

Garden staircase with gabion steps

Creative Ecodesign Idea - Tire Garden Ladder

Landscaping garden stairs

Not everyone can boast of a perfectly flat suburban area without height differences. And sometimes gardeners make tiered gardens intentionally to make the landscape more interesting and the garden more picturesque. In this case, it is quite difficult to do without steps that will help you move between the tiers. Such steps can perform not only a practical, but also a decorative function. If you decide to organize steps in your garden, we offer you a selection of ideas to help you complete your plan.

Consider the first version of the steps, which are suitable for large gentle slopes, since each step is quite wide.

The frame of the staircase is made of large wooden beams, which are assembled into a one-piece structure using appropriate fasteners. The voids inside the timber formwork can be filled with pebbles or rubble.

Such steps look original; water does not accumulate on their surface, as it seeps through the backfill. The disadvantages include the need to periodically add rubble, since it can be poured over the sides.

If you liked the technology described above, but you need a more compact and simpler ladder, the bars can be replaced with boards, and the length of the steps can be reduced. A ladder made using this technology can be made curved more easily.

If you want to approach the construction of stairs in the garden thoroughly, pay attention to stronger and more durable materials, brick and concrete.

There are several approaches here. So, for example, the outer walls of the steps can be made of bricks, the cavities can be filled with rubble, and concrete slabs can be laid on top.

There is also another option. The steps are poured out of concrete and the leading edge is bricked. In this case, you will have to use formwork. It makes sense to use this approach if each step is long enough.

If you want to be original, you can use railway sleepers to make the steps. With the help of sleepers, you can also pave a garden path. Pour the gaps between them with a solution or cover with large rubble. It turns out pretty interesting.

Sleepers can also be used instead of formwork for pouring concrete steps. The option is not much different from the first, but such steps will look more original, especially if the sleepers are old.

Recently, gardeners have abandoned concrete-filled garden paths in favor of paving slabs. Dismantling old walkways can leave you with many large pieces of concrete that can also be used to create original garden steps.

If money is not a problem, the steps can be made from stone slabs. True, for this you need to have good skills in construction, or use the services of professional builders with the appropriate equipment.

You can decorate ordinary concrete steps with ceramic tile shards. Such a staircase will look more fun and interesting.

Remember that steps do not have to be geometrically perfect. Here's an example of how you can create an interesting staircase using randomly placed concrete blocks.