In order to keep your landscaping in good condition, you need a solid foundation of soil. Erosion is one of the many severe problems that can arise from inadequate irrigation and drainage. Fortunately, you can prevent this problem from occurring in the first place by learning about how this process affects your lawn and the global ecosystem. To better understand what soil erosion is, what its side effects are, and how retaining walls can help, consult the guide below. 

What Is Soil Erosion & What Causes It?

Topsoil is naturally pushed around by water, wind, and human activity. This process is known as soil erosion. More soil erosion occurs from the wind in particularly flat and arid areas. However, soil erosion occurs in temperate regions due to a variety of factors, including the dispersal of topsoil due to heavy rains, water runoff, and the settling of topsoil in natural depressions along the path it is transported.

The roots holding the dirt in place are destroyed when people develop new regions by cutting down trees and grass. When there are fewer plants present, less of the water is quickly absorbed. As a result, more groundwater is left to form runoff, which moves more topsoil as it grows.

How Does Soil Erosion Affect Your Property?

Depending on the initial grading of your land, you may have sections where soil is exposed to the elements and at risk of being blown away or slowly eroded by rainwater or melting snow. Trees and grasses may perish if their root systems become exposed due to soil erosion or wind.

What Can You Do to Prevent It?

By all accounts, building a retaining wall is the most effective preventative measure against soil erosion. A retaining wall in the right place can help stop erosion by making a barrier that keeps the topsoil where it belongs. Walls make areas that are falling apart more stable, keep the soil in place, and let plants grow roots.

Installations of retaining walls can also include irrigation systems, like drainage pipes or outlets, to move water away from the land while keeping it in place. By building a retaining wall, you can keep your soil in place and keep your landscaping costs down.

If you're interested in adding a retaining wall to your property, turn to the professionals at DCM Landscaping LLC & Total Lawn Care in Saratoga, WI. Since 1991, these lawn care and hardscaping professionals have worked with residents throughout the area to ensure beautiful, healthy, and structurally sound properties. Give them a call today at (715) 325-5548 to schedule an appointment, and visit their website to learn more about what they do.