Sandia Heights climbs the west face of the mountain above the northeast heights, on steep, rocky, decomposed-granite ground with covenants in place and deer in the yard most mornings. ABQ Landscape Co builds foothill landscapes here that satisfy the association, survive the browsing, and hold the slope.
Holding a steep decomposed-granite slope
The grade is the design problem. We terrace with native stone, set boulders to retain rather than decorate, and anchor crusher fines with real edging so a single storm does not deposit the front yard on the street.
Within that structure, high-desert landscaping with agave, red yucca, chamisa, penstemon, and native grasses does well, because sharp drainage is exactly what those plants want.
Covenant-ready plans
Landscape changes here generally go through review. We prepare plant lists and layout plans in the format the association expects, specify from acceptable palettes, and build from the approved plan once it clears.
Living with deer and elevation
Wildlife browsing and cold nights both narrow the plant list. We select accordingly and keep established trees structurally sound with periodic tree trimming, clearing deadwood and keeping limbs off roofs on lots where access is tight.
Frequently asked questions
Will you handle the association submittal?
Yes. We prepare plant lists and layout plans formatted for review and build from the approved plan.
How do you keep crusher fines on a steep slope?
Terracing, proper base compaction, adequate depth, and hard edging. On the steepest sections we use stabilized fines or larger rock that will not travel.
Is deer damage avoidable?
Largely, through plant selection. We build the palette around species deer generally avoid and protect anything vulnerable during establishment.
Nearby communities we serve
We work the northeast foothills including Tijeras and Placitas, and cover the wider Albuquerque metro.
Get a free quote
Call (505) 630-1309 or request a free quote online, and a member of our Albuquerque crew will follow up to schedule a walkthrough and put together a clear, itemized estimate.
By the ABQ Landscape Co Editorial Team. Reviewed for high-desert landscaping accuracy.