4 Natural Ways to Prevent Erosion and Flooding in Santa Rosa, CA

The great weather and excellent year-round temperatures make California one of the most comfortable places to live in the U.S. But all that sunshine comes with its drawbacks. We know all too well about the natural disasters that plague the state: earthquakes, fires, flooding, and landslides. Here are four natural ways to prevent erosion and flooding in Santa Rosa.

Grass, Soil, and Mulch

The type of soil in your yard plays a significant role in how well it can handle flooding and erosion. Sand and loosely packed soil are susceptible to flooding, so it’s a good idea to use a heavy hardwood mulch to keep soil stays in place. An eco-friendly lawn will also help, as long as your yard can sustain the grass in times of drought and heavy rains. There are many different types of grass you can incorporate into your landscape that will prevent or slow down soil erosion, but your best bet is to use a combination of grass and other plants.

Plant Trees and Shrubs

Trees and shrubs are your best defense against erosion. Especially if your house is built on the side of a hill or is vulnerable to erosion and landslides. The roots systems of trees and shrubs help hold the soil together so it’s a good idea to plant them densely.

Hilly Areas

Few of us have the luxury of living on a flat property. Sometimes it’s impractical to plant trees on steep, sloped ground. In that case, consider cover crops. These plants protect your soil from erosion. Beach strawberry, clover, and emerald carpet are great crops to plant in Santa Rosa (Note: you can also use clover for lawns).

Get Creative

Another way to prevent flooding is to direct water out of your yard with embankments or artificial rivers. Embankments consist of packed earth planted with shrubs and grasses to keep it in place. You could go a step further and dig out a winding, artificial river that takes the water away from your yard. Decorate it with grasses, shrubs, and boulders for a more natural look. Incorporate underground drains or direct the water to another safe location.

Need help preventing erosion and flooding in your yard? Talk to a Santa Rosa landscaping expert if you need help to redefine your landscape.

Main Photo Credit: Sundry Photography / Adobe Stock Free / License

Brenda Ryan

Brenda Ryan is a former content director for LawnStarter. She is a former radio newscaster and journalist. In her free time she enjoys traveling, gardening, visiting wineries, reading, and playing trivia games in her home state of Colorado.

Posts by Brenda Ryan