# Berm Styles in Landscape Designs
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Wide Rows
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One of the earliest American styles of berms is wide rows. These are laid out much like a traditional, rowed vegetable garden, but instead of planting vegetables flat in the ground, they are planted on long berms about 1 or 2 feet tall. Although it might seem that these berms would wash away with a good rain, that does not happen under normal summertime conditions.
Natural
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Berms that peak off center appear more natural than those peaking at the very center. For an even more natural look, the berm should slope differently on each side, and may even vary in width from one end to the other.
Symmetrical
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Berms that are perfectly symmetrical give a more formal look to the landscape. They are also often used near features like flagpoles and mailboxes.
Curved
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Crescent and curved berms tend to flow with the surrounding landscape, blending in with other lines in the yard. They are also ideal for corners.
Multiple
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Unless an area is large, multiple berms are usually avoided. If there’s room for more than one berm, however, keep their shape similar. For example, don’t combine a crescent-shaped berm with a symmetrical berm. Instead, stick to two or more crescent-shaped berms. For the most natural look, make the berms different sizes, and avoid lining them up.
Rock Garden
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Berms drain well water, rarely becoming muddy. This makes them a good way to incorporate a rock garden in the landscape.
Grassy
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Berms can also be covered with turf (as long as the berm is of such a size and shape a lawn mower can easily and safely run over it). Decorative grasses, which can be cut with loppers or a weed whacker, are also a good choice.
Forested
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Groups of bushes look well on berms, as do trees. For the most natural look, plant trees across the berm, following the berm’s shape.
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