Have you ever gazed out over your yard, full of pride, until you’re reminded of that eye sore that you just can’t seem to fix? Sometimes all it takes is a little help solving the foundational issues and then bringing to life your own ideas to give it that personal flare. One of our clients did just that by transforming a boring, dry creek bed into a lush garden oasis.
Back in 2014, a gardener from Dahlonega reached out to us for help with an erosion problem in her side yard. Erosion issues are common in areas that have some kind of slope, where rainfall can wash away soil and grass. They are also an easy fix with the right tools. For this client’s erosion issue, water was running down the side of the yard near the driveway, leaving a sad and barren landscape. That’s where we came in.
The client’s side yard was struggling to grow any grass or plants because of all the rain washing away any nutrients in the soil.
To fix the issue, we dug a trench alongside the driveway and inserted a slotted, corrugated pipe that would capture and redirect the water. It funneled runoff from an opening at the top of the hill to the street.
We then designed a simple dry creek bed to cover the pipe and work as drainage control. Dry creek beds are a good erosion solution because they are relatively easy to install, require low maintenance over time, and mimic a natural barrier.
We used river rock for the foundation and boulders for decoration. This was also to imitate what a natural dry creek bed might look like.
We also added a large flat rock to break up the space visually and add a focal point that would lead to a path to the client’s miniature greenhouse.
Though the dry creek bed we installed helped solve the foundational issue, admittedly it was, well, a little boring to look at. That’s where the creativity comes in. You don’t have to be a professional landscaper to bring some color and excitement to your yard. All you need is a few good ideas and some imagination. Your garden just has to work for you!
Over the years our client added some creepy crawly plants to soften the look of the rock, add color, and create some ground cover.
A variety of plants and flowers is key in distracting from the dry, boring creek bed.
Another good tip would be adding a few fun yet tasteful yard items like fountains or statues. These types of garden embellishments are what really give a space personality and character. Obsessed with frogs? Cats? Glass blowing sculptures or pottery? Whatever it is, your garden is just that: yours. Do whatever makes you smile.
We can help with the bigger, fundamental yard problems. It’s the smaller, personal touches that can bring any area to that next level of elegance, fun, or whatever you want it to be!
