Written by the team at Boulder Ridge Landscaping | Updated June 2025
Wisconsin storms can be unpredictable—one week it’s light rain, the next it’s high winds and flash flooding. If your landscape isn’t built to handle that kind of impact, you could be dealing with a muddy mess, damaged plants, or even erosion that undermines your hardscaping.
At Boulder Ridge Landscaping, we believe beautiful yards should be tough too. Here’s how to protect your outdoor space from the worst Mother Nature throws your way—without sacrificing curb appeal.
Why Storm-Proof Landscaping Matters
When a yard isn’t designed with storm resilience in mind, water pools, soil washes away, and plantings struggle to recover. Over time, this leads to:
- Foundation and basement water damage
- Washed-out mulch and bare spots in the lawn
- Uprooted trees or shrubs
- Cracks in patios and walkways
- Damaged retaining walls or hardscape features
A well-planned landscape can act as the first line of defense—soaking up water, controlling runoff, and staying rooted during high winds.
6 Ways to Storm-Proof Your Landscape
1. Install Proper Grading and Drainage
Redirect rainwater away from your home and softscape with proper grading. French drains, swales, and dry creek beds are subtle but powerful ways to prevent pooling and erosion.
2. Choose Deep-Rooted and Wind-Resistant Plants
Native shrubs and deep-rooted perennials hold their ground even in strong winds. Ornamental grasses, coneflowers, and switchgrass are resilient choices that can bend without breaking.
3. Anchor with Retaining Walls
If your property has sloped areas, retaining walls can prevent soil movement while adding structure and beauty. We build walls that are both functional and seamless with your design.
4. Mulch the Right Way
Heavy rain can wash away cheap mulch. We recommend using shredded hardwood mulch, which stays in place better and helps protect plant roots from extreme weather shifts.
5. Install Permeable Hardscapes
Patios and walkways made with permeable pavers or gravel allow water to soak through instead of running off and causing damage. They reduce pressure on your drainage system and help control stormwater naturally.
6. Strategically Place Trees and Shrubs
Proper placement can shield your home and yard from wind while creating natural water breaks. We can help you design a layout that maximizes both beauty and protection.
What to Do After a Storm
If your yard has already been hit hard by a recent storm, don’t wait to repair. Standing water, exposed roots, or shifted pavers should be addressed quickly to avoid bigger (and more expensive) problems.
We offer landscape assessments and cleanup services to get your property back in shape—fast.
Be Proactive, Not Reactive
The best way to storm-proof your landscape is before the storm ever hits. With the right plants, materials, and layout, you can enjoy peace of mind every time clouds roll in.
📞 Call Boulder Ridge Landscaping today to schedule a storm resilience checkup for your yard. We’ll help you design a space that’s both beautiful and built to last.