One of the first things customers and employees notice when approaching a commercial property is the landscaping. A vibrant landscaping filled with lush trees, plants, and flowers is a welcome sight to visitors. However, a property filled with bare spots, unhealthy plants, and dying trees can be a turnoff. One of the causes of an unattractive landscape is erosion. Here are four solutions for fixing erosion problems on a commercial property.

1- Plant More Plants

It may seem counterintuitive, but one way to solve the erosion problem on your commercial property is to add more grass, plants, and trees. For the plant life to thrive, the soil needs some love. The soil will need to be tilled and watered. Healthy soil will not erode as quickly as dried-up soil that will blow away by the wind. Plants and trees will act as a wind block and keep the soil where it belongs.

2- Add a Retaining Wall

Adding a retaining wall is a popular way to reduce water runoff and wind from causing erosion. The wall can help to divert water from specific areas of your property, especially in areas prone to flooding during periods of heavy rain. Retaining walls need to be inspected regularly. It is necessary to check the backside of the wall for signs of erosion.

3- Manage the Flow of Water

Swift moving water is a cause of erosion. Your commercial landscape needs water to thrive. However, fast-moving water does not allow the ground to observe it. Instead, the water stays on the surface, and the soil gets caught up in the water flow. In addition to a retaining wall, there are other ways to prevent water erosion.

Add stones to the bottom of downspouts. The stones will prevent water from washing away the soil. Add grass swales to the lower slopes of the property to help divert water. Another way is to create a rain garden. They are simple to make with stones, plants, and grasses with deep roots. The garden will slow down the flow of water and allow it to slow down and soak into the soil. The garden also acts as a filter by cleaning the water before it reaches the water table.

4- Install Drainable Hardscaping

Every commercial property needs hardscaping, such as walkways, driveways, and patios. Drainable hardscaping is another way to prevent erosion. Construct pathways from permeable materials like stones, flagstones, and bricks. The materials will allow the water to flow through them. For driveways, consider using gravel, crushed stone, and permeable concrete. There may be heavily walked-on areas throughout the property where planting grass or plants may be too difficult. In those areas, consider using mulch, pea gravel, or river rock to help with erosion control.

There are many reasons to ensure your commercial property has adequate erosion control. One of those reasons is curb appeal. A nicely groomed landscape will attract customers and employees. Also, controlling erosion will prevent damage to buildings and other property structures, saving you from spending money on repairs. Erosion control is good for the environment. It helps to keep fertilizers and other pollutants out of water streams.