Landscaping With Steps

Review the landscape around your steps and make a landscaping plan. Decide if you will remove all grass, weeds and unwanted growth at the top, bottom and sides of the stairs. Note if the bottom or top of the steps needs a paved walkway. Make a list of any landscaping features you would like to add, like lighting, shrubs or gravel to prevent weeds.

Install a smooth walkway from the base of your steps to the driveway or from the top of the steps to your home to make it easy for guests to find their way. Dig a 4-inch trench along the path and spread a 4-inch layer of gravel or lay bricks or flagstones for a natural path that complements your plants and grass.

Remove weeds and any unwanted growth from around the steps. Turn over the soil and rake it until smooth. Mix a 3-inch layer of native top soil mixed with compost into the soil on either side of the stairs and near the top and bottom planting areas.

Water the soil to determine if there are any drainage or erosion issues. If the water doesn't seep into the ground after a few minutes, adding more compost or sand will improve drainage in clay soil. If water tends to puddle at the bottom of the stairs, dig a drainage ditch to direct runoff away and fill the ditch with river rocks so it doesn't become an eyesore.

Add plants to the sides of the steps. Low-growing evergreens add color and reduce maintenance year-round, prevent erosion and won't overwhelm the steps because they are under 1 foot tall. Cotoneaster, juniper, honeysuckle and St. John's wort are a few examples of plants to consider.

Plant fragrant groundcover like sweet woodruff or lemon thyme beside steps. The subtle fragrances will linger as guests move up and down.

Install a lamppost at the top and bottom of your stairs to ensure people's safety at night. Use the same hardscape material as your steps or walkway to edge the lamppost.