Contour planting: Gardening tips

If your garden has hills, then it might be harder for you to enjoy gardening, because it creates problems for planting and drainage.

Luckily, you can always use contour planting - it's a useful method that can help you save the day.

Let's find out more about this method and its benefits.

What is it?

Instead of planting crops in straight rows up and down the hill, contour planting involves planting in lines that follow the natural shape of the land, creating a kind of curving pattern.

Erosion Control

When it rains, water runs downhill. Straight rows on slopes can act like channels, allowing water to flow quickly, which can wash away the topsoil. 

Contour planting slows down the water's movement and allows it to spread across the land, preventing soil erosion. 

The plants and their roots help anchor the soil, keeping it in place.

Water Retention

Contour planting can also help with water conservation. 

It captures rainwater and allows it to infiltrate into the soil, rather than quickly running off the surface. 

This can be especially important in areas with limited water resources. The plants benefit from this retained water during dry periods.

Sustainable Agriculture

Contour planting is an eco-friendly practice that supports sustainable agriculture. 

It helps protect the land from degradation and preserves the fertility of the soil over the long term.

Terrace Formation

In some cases, contour planting is combined with terracing, which involves creating level steps or platforms on a hillside. 

This method further reduces soil erosion and enhances water retention.

Conclusion

Overall, contour planting is a valuable technique for managing the challenges of farming on sloped land. 

It's an effective way to protect the environment, improve water management, and maintain soil quality.
 

• Related news:
• planting
• gardening
• tips
• 12 October 2023

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