Groundcovers—Protecting Slopes From Erosion

Steep slopes present both challenges and wonderful opportunities for landscaping. Groundcovers are an excellent plant type to use to protect the slopes on your property.

Why use groundcovers?

Steep banks can be difficult and dangerous to mow. Erosion can be a serious problem if vegetation is not established quickly.

South facing slopes may warm up and dry out quicker than other areas, while slopes that face north will be cooler than surrounding areas.

So, what are your groundcover options if you have a steep incline in your yard that presents maintenance problems?

Before choosing your plants, determine the existing conditions. Which direction does the bank face? Is it shady or sunny? Then, decide if you want a formal, manicured look or a more natural look.

The Manicured Look

If you prefer a well-maintained look, plant low-growing groundcovers. Numerous plants are available that will blanket the ground, protecting it from erosion and remaining neat throughout the year with little or no maintenance.

Low growing species of juniper will do well in many sunny, drier locations. They spread rapidly and vary in texture and color, ranging from blues through greens.

In shady spots, the non-native pachysandra often does well. This plant remains green throughout the winter and spreads easily.

Wintercreeper is another non-native but hardy plant that grows in sun and partial shade. Varieties are available that have white or gold variegated leaves.

Yet another possibility is periwinkle, a Vinca species, known for its blue or white flowers. Check with a local nursery for species that are best suited for your area.

The Natural Look

If you prefer a more natural look, plant wildflowers and native grasses on those slopes. Once established, these natural plantings will provide season-long color, food, and shelter for birds and butterflies.

You may need to mow periodically to control growth and keep woody shrubs and trees from becoming established. Check on local ordinances dealing with unmowed areas. If you do need to mow, consider buying a scythe. It will be safer than pulling a powered mower up and down the slope.

Terraces provide another option for steep slopes. They provide architectural interest as well as opportunities. They can vary considerably in cost, depending on the materials you want to use and the size of the area you want to terrace.

Terraces must be installed properly to ensure the stability of the slope. Check on local ordinances and building codes if you're considering a terrace. When contracting for the work, use a reliable, competent professional.

If the slope isn't too steep, you can build your own rock garden.

Bare Soil on Slopes

When planting groundcovers on slopes, avoid planting into bare soil whenever you can. This may not be possible with new construction.

If that's the case, mulch around the plants with an organic mulch to help retain water, or at least slow down water movement to prevent erosion.

If sod already exists on the slop, kill it and plant your groundcovers into it. This limits the potential for serious erosion before the new groundcover becomes established. You may want to mulch around the plants so the area looks neat.

Watering on Slopes

Provide extra water while establishing your plants to greatly enhance success during dry periods. But don't overwater, or you could cause erosion on the slopes.

Once the plants are established, ensure that they receive a steady amount of water, especially if the slope faces the sun.

Trickle irrigation is best on slopes, since the water moves very slowly, and waters only the areas meant to be watered (i.e., your plants).

Some of the information in this article is courtesy of the Natural Resources Conservation Agency's Backyard Conservation.

If this page was valuable for you, please share your new knowledge. Click Like...