The BIGGEST improvement so far. ITALY renovation reality RAW and honest #26

[@ginojaco]

Looks really good! First thing, plants you want are best but even weeds are better than nothing, you can kill them later - get something(s) growing all over the bare earth ASAP! Grass is quick... This will stop erosion, which will happen far more easily and far quickly that you realise, and once it starts it accelerates... Something we had in Zim was an open air Summer kitchen with a top roof and a lower ceiling, for the air to move between so the underneath stays cool. I've seen this in Greece too, not essential but it works well. Cracking project, keep it coming. 👍

[@TraciKyle]

Excited for you. Finally, a dramatic change. Quickly get it shored up. You don’t want risk of mud slides. Best of luck

[@lagringa7518]

Drainage AWAY from the house Mate or they've created a funnel straight to it! Stone retaining walls for the terraces before planting and lots of shrubs to hold the soil or the first torrential rain will dissolve it all into a mud hole with your house as the dam which those olive trees won't hold back this winter for sure! Don't count your eggs before they're hatched, think of your hard scape first. Best of luck!

[@robbrummer8967]

Agree, think with a downpour the house will become a pool unless drainage will take care of this!

[@geofftaylor9193]

Gabion cages would fix any concerns. After seeing the recent rains in Spain we don’t want any devastating weather to wreck Richard’s hard work. 👍

[@johnthorne2768]

Cheers to you for planning your landscaping before you start digging. Pathways of sun, stormwater drainage (hope for the best - plan for the worst), hardscape, neighbors to screen out, soil needs, machinery to rent to dig holes (don't do it by hand), use of the flat area. Big stuff first, details later. You'll do well, I'm sure!

[@simonr5171]

The landscaping looks great. But the cycle ride - that was amazing! That is what it is all about - cycling in the Italian mountains. Absolutely loved it.

[@michaelrich555]

Landscaping looks great but I’d be worried about erosion. Maybe get down a ground cover, like a mix of fenugreek, vetch, flax and cowpeas - something to enrich and hold the soil? Just a suggestion. The terraces will look great in the future!

[@Reet64]

Great blank canvas. My strongest suggestion is to stabilize those terrace walls.

[@jennichristie5264]

Maybe a pergola with grape vines on your patio to stand over a nice long table?? And some stone steps up to the various levels. Will all be fabulous.

[@lucywattridge1946]

Great step forward Richard. I am worried about the rainwater you'll experience. I think retaining walls and steps. I have seen land slides on my sisters newly planted vineyard in the past in Piedmont about 8yrs ago. I know it's an expense but it would be good if you could get some mature shrubs in as soon as possible.

[@andrewcowman8731]

Incredible change. Plant low bushes & Higher up fruit trees with herbs for scent & cooking!

[@rogerhampton4111]

Big change! Get it planted as soon as possible. The weeds will move in. Parts of mine which I didn't get seeded up in October are already overgrown. I can see it on camera. Quick trip planned before Xmas. Plant rosemary on the banks. They have good roots and the mosquitoes don't like it. Lavender is another good one. Clover seed is great as it doesn't need much looking after. It's going to cost you a fortune with the amount of plants you're going to need! Hope to get to see you sometime. Roger

[@videoofthedaygetit]

As others have said, you need weeds or grass to stabilise the soil, or it will probably wash away. And strimming steep banks like that will keep you fit. I've just spent a few hours doing exactly that at my house here in Liguria!

[@jennifermalberg5934]

So happy for you. Major progress! It is going to be tremendous when it is planted and the trees start to fill in. 👏🏼

[@garethkreike3263]

Fantastic blank canvas. Everyone is right about water run-off; need to get a plant which soaks up water and provides lots of shade. The new flat area has huge potential as well. Bear in mind when choosing locations for things like your morning coffee spot, that the sun moves a little each day and what is an ideal location in early November, maybe unbearable in the height of summer.

[@Dustindbest]

OMG! It just crazy to see the difference. I would be excited as I love to do landscape and having a fresh clean start would be so awesome. You’re so lucky! I am executed for you and I can’t wait to see your progress. Love it, love it, thanks for sharing your life with us.

[@marshabush8812]

Good idea to landscape it out and decide where the larger trees/ shrubs will go,

[@Dustindbest]

 A RV hookup area for friends, little private area for them.  Grape Garden area and huge Pergola and Fire pit area.  Flagstone pathways  Strategic Unique Shad Trees, and flowering trees  Some type of Water Feature small pond or little stream  Outdoor wine bar  Small Rose Garden  Rustic Fencing in areas to enhance your landscape  Unique Carport area to cover your vehicle  Make some cute walking trails throughout your property

[@EricOnYouTube]

You are living me dream life. heheheh. Glad to see your property taking shape.

[@marshabush8812]

OMG ,😮 I did not expect this. What a difference, this will give you a great boost.

[@fattomane]

Greetings from Italians in Wolverhampton! Enjoy the sunshine! It's grey here!

[@chadberserk1050]

Been watching your channel since the start. For a few years now, since lockdown, I guess I've just been looking for something more in life but something that brings me peace and joy. I've been looking at the typical Sicily route for a few years, but since your channel started, I've added Marche to that list. It's not something I can do in the near future but it's what I'm now working towards. Just having that, gives me more motivation to ensure it happens. Thanks for helping me find that. Put me down for a bottle of the old olive oil 😁

[@petercashell9086]

Fab Richard, Opens the whole site up beautifully. I'm feeling you should live with it for a while and then decide what goes where. Kitchen garden, vines, fruit trees, patio, pergola, outdoor kitchen as you've mentioned?? The possibilities are almost limitless. Well done. The mini digger man knew what he was at!! 😂😅

[@donna4137]

Richard, truly amazing...until you scaled the terrace I couldn't determine the height!!! Great plans ahead, one could feel your excitement and vision for the area. Some folks have mentioned drainage , hopefully you've addressed it.👍

[@TimFrancis-hu8ge]

Che trasformazione!! OMG, that's a job you have right there in an instant, that'll be wonderful to see transformed, in 'Italian time'. 🤩

[@martinhudon8337]

That was a massive effort to move all that soil. It'll be worth it. If there are strong rain showers in the winter, it may be prudent to seed something that can cover the new slopes quickly, or there may be some soil erosion by the time Spring comes and nature starts to cover those slopes. The soil slopes look compact so that'd be an "insurance" to preserve the slopes. So many nice rides in the Appenines! 🚴

[@daveffs1935]

That was a good call terracing it, looks so much bigger, it's going to be nice once its greened up a bit. I used to have olive trees when I lived in Portugal, they don't offer that much in the way of cover unless you let them grow out, but then they don't produce as much. I think you'd be better off having your 2 rows, and then a few bushy natives behind to fill in the gaps. It might do you well to put a swale in at the top as well to hold water and direct it away down the sides, you can plant trees next to it and that'll hold more water for them.

[@lesleywood76]

Wow, amazing how it has opened up your property. I can see a terrace with olive trees, lavender & rosemary 😊❤

[@Ekirea]

Congratulations! Olive trees sounds good.Maybe plant a tree that could grow big and be like the house tree.Something else is the beautiful oleander which you can get in different colors of the flower. The oleander will be outstanding and also grows quickly.Good luck with your property 👍

[@Stoobers]

Wow, never did I think the landscaping would look like that! So much room!!

[@WireItalia]

Video semplicemente bellissimo. Complimenti Richard.

[@SpiritualQuest11.11]

Fantastic landscape, those terraces are going to be gorgeous. Property value just went up. ❤

[@saeedandalusi7579]

Great views,stuff it with trees,😎 good luck

[@claudineclaudinehamon2300]

Wow, great digging and flattening hob they gave done 👌👍💪💪👏👏 when planting trees, also think about dominant wind. Really looking forward to the plantation stage 👍👌 What a beautiful ride up that mountain 🤩🤩😍😍

[@claudineclaudinehamon2300]

*job, they have done

[@kerrylee389]

Retaining walls before it all turns to a mudslide?

[@dianegirard6645]

Living vicariously until my homes sell in Montana. Your property is glorious.

[@davemitchell8756]

Richard, is it worth before going any further to get the machine to put comprehensive drainage in around the house?. With all the heavy rain it could be an insurance against damaging your work in future. It looks great, maybe trellis creating shaded terrace? Rows of Cypress trees- 🙂Enjoyed this as always 👍👍☀️

[@kevinharker1840]

yep, that's how i would have done it! 😂😂 they've done a great job, olive trees at the ready.

[@neutonrenda2303]

Now I can understand why you were so keen to get it done, it changes everything around your house. You can finally start planting and getting a feeling for the whole area. Fantastic.👍❤️

[@PeterMccabe-h3q]

OM my, what a job is lying ahead,, Well done, and good luck in planning. For me it's a daunting project,,I will keep following you to see the progress and end result.

[@richsnatt]

That bike ride looked incredible Rich, not sure i could handle all that climbing!! The views and that sky colour 😍. Love your channel, exciting times ahead with the landscaping!!

[@MarkBeattie-d9w]

Amazing transformation. Well done. Defo has potential now. It’s coming together.

[@anthonytodd3408]

Hi Richard’s, wow what a great job the guys have done on the banking, it’s going to be a large landscaping jobeee. If you are going to grass the banking you will need a hover mower on a rope to cut it. That’s a great offer for someone to come and help with the planting, especially as olive oil is £7 a bottle at the moment, however unfortunately I’m 7 months away from 80 and have had a new knee. Would have loved to volunteer. Great getting old. 👴The fire looks amaziiiiiiig. Great progress, keep up the good work, I’ll be watching. Cheers, Tony from Romiley PS fab roads to cycle on, try it round here if you have a death wish. 😂😂

[@estherfarquharson1892]

Hello, I’ve been watching you since you got the keys for the house and I live in Florida, but I’m originally from London I’ve been watching your program since you’ve got the keys for my house and you work really hard. It’s going to look nice when you do finish the house. I think it’s a great idea having to have some oranges and lemon and maybe some free tree would be nice and some grapes. Be happy to see you next episode. Bye for now.

[@rickr5927]

I hope I'm wrong but afraid of huge water run off... google what 'swales' are.. they hold the water.. and don't let it run off.. HOpe I'm wrong though.. For a 'fence' as olive trees.. 4 mtrs apart max... good luck.. !!!

[@CatherineH.-gf7mm]

Plant it in red clover, feeds the bees, doesn't grow too high, perennial. :). And the seed is inexpensive

[@philippknoll77]

Absolutely love seeing your vision come to life! The landscaping looks amazing. If you add an infinity pool to that "glamping" area you got yourself an authentic Italien luxury retreat! And who knew the weather would be that nice in your region in November. Makes we want to hop on my bike and ride south. Wouldn't even be that far. 😅

[@alancooper3982]

get some grass seeds in quick to bind the soil . Perennials that will require zero / tiny effort once planted, artichokes, asparagus, walnut tree, fig tree, apricot, lemon, clementine & plums

[@marshabush8812]

Think about when the rain is torrential, as your house is low down,drainage. Maybe a retaining wall. Just a thought, as l'm no expert 😉

[@davidlanders2853]

Very exciting! Your brain must be just racing.......well done.

[@traciannveno]

Put some slides in ;) I think you need some dreaming time… So wonderful xo

[@petra6087]

Wow, Richard 🤩 What a big project! But at the end it will be great 👍The bicycle tour was sure very taff 😜 Greetings from Austria

[@neutonrenda2303]

Absolutely stunning, I don't think any camera can do it justice though. What a great place to cycle.👌

[@jeffreycooper6482]

What a transformation 😊

[@chrisrollinson]

Bloody fantastic! That makes so much difference Really opens everything thing up Maybe some low rough stone walls to hold it back and slow the water from above

[@sallyflavell6221]

Great work on terraces! Wow! If you build a pergola along the house you could grow grape vines over it for shade in summer. Feel sure you will get a lot of willing helpers to dig for planting olive trees etc. Rosemary bushes are very hardy too and will help hold the soil and make a nice hedge too. The bike ride looked spectacular! So good to see you back again. Your brain must be buzzing with ideas!!😂 cheers from Oz🦘🦘☀️🌻

[@deanjones8622]

Looks great one he'll of a lot of work, do you think putting up some traditional stone retaining walls up just to keep the banking from slipping, it's going to get muddy during the rainy season.

[@salinthecity1]

Love the space❤ suggest quick growing wild flower seed mix and herbs/ perrenials that grow from cuttings, like lavender etc. Raid UK friends gardens 😅 the ride looked epic!

[@Ar_Stanton]

Wow magnifico!!!

[@MsAgatha1Eta]

Finally, you're back! 😊

[@patriciapadgett4696]

Hola Richard. I'm no expert, but know from experience the terraces need retaining. One huge rainfall ( which you will get ) and you'll have a mess. The kand looks amazing, but get some advice. Good luck ❤️

[@ladolcevita9082]

Plant Olive Lemon trees. Add Grape vines. 🎉

[@frankc9086]

Just a suggestion some dwarf fruit or and nut trees on one of the terraces would do wonders for bank stability and water retention.or you could plant full size trees but it would probably block out the sun.

[@Sclero80]

in Italy the cypress is seen as a cemetery tree... don't put too many of them, and remember to also evaluate where to put the olive trees, because during flowering they produce a lot of pollen, everything underneath them turns yellow 😅

[@mariaward9401]

Awesome Richard how much fun your having. May I recommend stones for stability and figs,apples,apricots,also don't forget an herb garden . Once you start planting your added soil needs organic material added. Too bad I'm in the tropics all I could send you would be coconuts, not growing there. Enjoy the process

[@patriciahammond-gonzalez5393]

Daunting... but fun! Ah yes, change... it's a good thing. I love how you talk yourself into getting it done. Do you watch mrandmrsadventure? Americans in Portugal with TERRACES to deal with. Ok. Thanks

[@andrewharris1837]

Wow amazing transformation to outside area.exciting times ahead.Not sure whether this banking will change the water table,increase risk of flooding to house even with banking having plants/foliage.So can't see from vlog if you have good drainage surrounding outside of house .If not get digging 😅

[@MisterPerks]

massive space it really opens up the view but looking at all that soil and I really worry about mud and drainage. Hopefully you've got plans for that?

[@alancooper3982]

forgot to mention wild rocket also, should come back every year

[@nnrrgg2011]

Qué cambio en el entorno de la casa! Te preguntabas por dónde empezar y al verte subir a las dos terrazas, creo que deberías empezar haciendo las escalinatas que te conduzcan a esos niveles. Y me imagino la cocina al aire libre pero cubierta por una gran pérgola de ampelosis quinquefolia: sombra en verano y sol en invierno. Saludos desde Argentina 🇦🇷

[@nemdub86]

I just learned from the QI channel that it’s better to dig square holes for tree roots, rather than round ones. Try it out! :)

[@terricollins8450]

Richard please don't feel the pressure to reply every time ...❤

[@bamse12line34]

maybe planting some low plants "cotoneaster" on new bare ground slope - really good for holding the slopes in place

[@slowly_radish8374]

Avoid heavy farm equipment running over tree drip lines. Plan now for future growth & traffic areas. Maybe table grapes & future pergola.

[@Chrissyhappy]

Goodness me! Good job!😊

[@estherfarquharson1892]

This is Esther again. I forgot to tell you should have some steps going up the Terrace will be easy for you but you’ll get that done in time. Bye.

[@debgrouette6885]

is that green goo stuff used here in Canada (when there's new overpass developement and the banks need stabilizing quickly) available in Italy? the stuff is sprayed on and it grows into grass of some kind that is good on slopes....maybe that'd work for you... (and ps. wow! your yard looks amazing!)

[@carluxx77b]

That's some heavy duty landscaping but to my ignorant, untrained eye isn't it a recipe for flooding the house in extreme downpours (you'll create a sort of moat) or at best a mudslide?

[@dbpantani]

Retaining walls and drainage ASAP!

[@davewynton8778]

Brilliant its done for you on your return - Rows of Cypress trees ?? not where your best views are of course

[@Prokres_Overland]

❤❤❤

[@goldenrayofcentralsun1111]

Get some help w basic planting on the terrace before the soil starts to move n wild plants set in. Heavy rains will change it from terraced to no more terrace.

[@viviansimons7954]

Get drainage in soon

[@carlorad]

Great stuff.. go hurry with plants and everything might stop water erosion. Climate change is here 😬😬

[@ambitiousforever130]

Figs, apples, olives and grapes trees

[@annbottelli5682]

Remember olive trees need to be well spaced because they need to be pruned in way that helps with the harvest. So wide and low.

[@athletikonaol]

Here in the USA, I buy a germination inhibitor that can keep weeds away for a few years per application. The brand name is PREEN. May not be available in Europe, but perhaps there is a similar product.

[@juliec3965]

Preen is highly toxic to aquatic organisms. It's been banned in the EU since 2004.

[@ambitiousforever130]

Bee hives

[@neutonrenda2303]

I can only imagine how painful it must've been not being there lol, I can see you pacing.🫣😂