How to Terrace a Small Ravine

Measure your ravine. You will need to determine the vertical and horizontal measurements to plan the number and size of the terraces to be built. This is also known as the rise and the run of the slope. Since the ravine probably has variable measurements, it may be helpful to use graph paper to record measurements along the length of the slope.

Plan your terraces. You will need to determine the width and depth of the terraces, and the materials for the walls. Determine whether you want the walls to be straight or curved to follow the natural contours of the ravine. A gentle slope will tend to have shallower terraces. Rock or wood walls are most common for home gardens. Rock provides the best option if you want contoured terraces. As you plan your terraces, mark them on the slope with stakes. When buying building materials, bring your measurements and consult with your garden center concerning the quantities of wall material, sand and aggregate required.

Clear vegetation from the hillside. Along each line of stakes, dig a trench 12 inches deep, and add a 4 to 5-inch layer of sand. The sand will provide a stable base and help level the walls.

Start building the terrace walls from the bottom. If you are building walls under three feet, dry stacking rock is an excellent option. Dry stacked walls are easy to build, and they provide for excellent drainage. Heavier stones will provide a stronger wall. Large, flat stones are the best.

Set the first layer of stones in the sand, using the carpenter's level to maintain a level surface. As you build the wall, set each layer of rock back 2 inches from the layer below. Stagger the stones to maximize wall strength. Place a layer of coarse stone aggregate along the bottom of the terrace to facilitate drainage. Fill the rest of the terrace with soil and compost.