How To: Terrace Planting

Measure the inside width and length of your terrace using your measuring tape. The inside represents the growth area (GA) and determines the types of flora you can successfully plant.

Dig trenches using your spade if you want to plant rows of flowers. Dig them approximately 6 to 12 inches apart, allowing for an outer perimeter of 6 to 12 inches between the plant and the inside wall of the terrace. As they grow, they will blossom and fill the area, and the root systems will fill the area underground within the terrace.

Dig a hole in the center of the terrace if you want to plant a single plant like a tree, allowing for a 12- to 24-inch perimeter between the plant and the internal walls of the terrace using the shovel. For 24- to 48-inch terraces, use "patio" trees like small conifers, bay or olive trees with narrow root systems.

Plant potted plants like ferns around the edges of the terrace that can raise the level of the terrace and create walls for an enclosed feel.

Water as needed using the watering hose, without oversaturating the terrace or causing drainage to appear as puddles or runoff at the base of the terrace.

Level the terrace with a tiller and shovel to reduce the terrace grade to a maximum of 30 percent. Grades steeper than 30 percent create hazardous situations if you have to manually tend the bushes or mow.