How to Keep Mulch on a Steep Grade

Mulching on a steep grade can be tricky if not done properly. Lightweight, loose wood mulch can wash away with rain or blow away with high winds. Using a material like pine straw mulch, made of pine needles, can prevent these problems. Pine straw can stick together to form an interlocked mass that won't wash or blow away. It's also porous enough to allow air and water to reach the soil. Using this type of mulch is one of the best ways to mulch a steep grade.

Things You'll Need

• Pine straw mulch
• Garden rake
• Gloves
• Pitchfork

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Remove all weeds, grass and other undesired plant material from the slope. Leave all desirable plants alone.

   • 2

     Rake the area to even out the soil and prepare it for the mulch.

   • 3

     Spread the pine straw mulch to a depth of 2 to 4 inches using gloved hands or a pitchfork.

   • 4

     Push the mulch into place around the base of any landscape plants.

   • 5

     Even out the mulch, using gloved hands, to eliminate high and low spots within the mulch.