Hi, i was just wondering if there was anything i should be aware of re: planting so close to the foundation of the home. I was worried about putting top soil next to the wall as i have heard that this can cause dampness. I wanted to build a small retaining wall and was concerned that it would cause problems to the basement...bugs, erosion, dampness. Any advice would be appreciated.
Comment Guidelines
We welcome your feedback on Houseandhome.com. H&H reserves the right to remove any unsuitable personal remarks made about the bloggers, hosts, homeowners and/or guests we feature. Please keep your comments focused on decorating, design, cooking and other lifestyle topics. Adopt a tone you would be willing to use in person and do not make slanderous remarks or use denigrating language. If you see a comment that you believe violates any of the guidelines outlined above, please click “Alert a Moderator.” Thank you.
If you are planting trees close to the foundation, then the mud could discolor the walls. If you have windows on that wall, the trees would block the sunlight and wind, besides if the trees are really big, the roots will create problems to your basement.
As long as you keep the plants small so that sunlight and air can circulate around the foundation it should be fine.
If you have eaves under your roof they usually extend 2 feet away from the house, this is to help keep the foundation dry and usually nothing will grow right next to the house because it's too dry. The last thing you want to do is water the side of the house.
Most people leave a 2 foot perimeter around the house and put river rock or something there to keep it looking attractive and dry.