Timber Garden Steps: Building Simple Steps on a Slope
Timber garden steps set wood beams across a slope with packed soil behind each one. The result is a set of short level treads instead of one long grade.
The short answer
Mississippi State University Extension notes terraces break a long slope into shorter even steps that cut erosion. Iowa State lists wooden timbers among the materials for flat areas on a slope. The UW Arboretum shows how to measure slope with stakes plus a string. Measure first, then set timbers along the contour.
How do you measure a slope for steps?
The UW Arboretum uses two stakes plus a string marked at 10 feet. Level the string and measure the drop at the low stake. Slope is the change in height over distance as a percent.
| Slope | Source note |
|---|---|
| Under 20 percent | MSU: more stable plus easier to work |
| Over 20 percent | MSU: steep slope |
| Over 12 percent | UW Arboretum: ask a pro for rain gardens |
Source: MSU Extension plus UW Arboretum.
How tall should each garden step be?
No source gives a riser height. Split the total drop into even steps so each feels the same underfoot.
How are timber steps anchored?
UMaine Extension describes rough hemlock frames plus large rocks holding soil on terraced beds. Iowa State notes soil cut from the upper side can go on the lower side to make level spots.
How to: step by step
- Measure the slope with stakes plus string.
- Divide the drop into even step heights.
- Cut a flat bed for the first timber.
- Set the timber along the contour.
- Fill plus tamp the tread behind it.
- Repeat to the top.
Troubleshooting
Uneven steps: risers vary. Reset to even heights.
Treads wash out: bare soil. Mulch the paths as UMaine advises.
Gullies beside the steps: runoff. MSU advises drainage channels.
Read garden microclimates, planning an outdoor garden layout plus environmental stresses on plants. Kind Seed Co also stocks cannabis seeds.
Sources
- Gardening on slopes and hillsides, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach
- Gardening on steep slopes, Mississippi State University Extension
- Measuring slope (RGS 2-5), University of Wisconsin Arboretum
- Do you have any tips to help with gardening on slopes?, University of Maine Cooperative Extension
FAQ
What wood works for garden steps?
UMaine Extension describes wooden frames of rough hemlock holding soil on a slope. Iowa State lists wooden timbers among terrace materials.
How do I find the slope percent?
The UW Arboretum divides the drop by the distance along a level string, then multiplies by 100 to get a percent slope.
Can steps help stop erosion?
MSU Extension notes terraces cut erosion by breaking a long slope into shorter even steps.
What counts as a steep slope?
MSU Extension defines steep slopes as land that rises more than twenty percent. Slopes under twenty percent are usually more stable.
What goes on the paths between terraces?
UMaine advises mulching paths with straw, leaves or wood shavings. A groundcover like Dutch white clover also works.
