13 Best Plants for Steep Slopes
- Coneflower. The coneflower can make a great choice if you live in zones 5 to 8. This summer bloomer puts on daisy-like...
- Daylilies. Standing erect on long stems, daylilies may be an outstanding choice for gardeners in zones 3 to 10.
- Roses. Ground-cover roses can be an excellent solution for steep hills. Different varieties are available,...
What to plant on steep slopes?
It spreads and holds the soil nicely but can also give the appearance of unmowed grass which may make your hill area look un-maintained. Maintenance is obviously a huge factor to consider when planting steep slopes. It’s ideal to choose more drought-tolerant plants since steep slopes are usually more of a dry microclimate.
What is the best type of planting for a hillside?
Terraced plant beds with multiple levels of plantings (as well as different plant species) is a better option that will create visual interest and also break up your hillside. With plantings broken up into different areas, the hillside may also be easier to maintain.
What are the best plants to control erosion on hillsides?
Here are a few of our favorite plants to beautify your yard and control erosion on hillsides and slopes. The lacy foliage of this plant adds great texture to slopes. New varieties are tougher and more cold-hardy. Look for varieties such as ‘Celtic Pride.’
What are the best trees for hillsides and slopes?
The best trees for hillsides and slopes have hearty, deep roots. Look for a good fit below, then make sure it’s in your growing zone! Douglas fir (zones 4-6): A tall, pyramidal evergreen tree with emerald needles that you’ve probably gotten as a Christmas tree Monterey pine (zones 7-10): A fast-growing, tall evergreen with its bushy green needles
How do you plant flowers on a steep hill?
Stagger or scatter your plants on the slope. ... Control water flow from the top of the hill. ... Slow water flow and runoff with terracing and contouring.Hold soil with wide spreading roots and groundcovers.Divert and scatter the force of heavy rains with plant foliage.Mulch to reduce surface runoff.More items...
What do you plant on slopes for erosion control?
10 Best Plants to Control Erosion in Your YardBig blue lilyturf (Liriope muscari)Creeping juniper (Juniperus horizontalis)Creeping phlox (Phlox subulata)4. Japanese spurge (Pachysandra terminalis)Mondo grass (Ophiopogon japonicus)Ostrich fern (Onoclea struthiopteris)Periwinkle (Vinca minor)More items...•
What do you do with a steep hillside?
Here are 10 things to do with a sloping backyard.Determine the surface texture of your soil. ... Build a deck. ... Try landscaping in tiers. ... Create a winding path or a staircase. ... Consider a landscape waterfall. ... Use the slope to your advantage when building vegetable beds. ... Create a destination at the bottom of the slope.More items...•
What to plant on a hill too steep to mow?
When you establish shrubs, ornamental grasses and perennials on a slope instead of a lawn, you eliminate the need to mow a steep, dangerous slope....The plants below can be used as ground covers on slopes:Agapanthus.Asiatic jasmine.Catmint.Cotoneaster.Creeping Jenny.Creeping phlox.Creeping thyme.Daylilies.More items...
What is the best ground cover for a steep hillside?
Steep, sunny slopes are perfect for perennials such as daylilies, creeping phlox, lamb's ears, stonecrop and a variety of ornamental grasses. A number of woody plants can also serve as good groundcovers, especially creeping juniper, fragrant sumac, bearberry, and Russian arborvitae.
How do you retain soil on a steep slope?
Mulch is a good choice if your slope is less than 33 percent, and the right mulch can help to keep soil in place on a gentle slope with or without plants. Use at least 3 inches of mulch that resists washing or blowing away during a rainfall or high winds.
How can I landscape my hillside cheap?
1. Mulch your slopeMulch your slope. The most affordable way to landscape a slope is also the easiest: mulch it. ... Mulch your slope. The most affordable way to landscape a slope is also the easiest: mulch it. ... Mulch your slope. The most affordable way to landscape a slope is also the easiest: mulch it.
What is the best low maintenance ground cover?
Reduce the amount of time required for weeding and looking after your plot by adding some of the best low maintenance ground cover plants to your planting scheme.Checkerberry/American Wintergreen. ... Mondo grass. ... Alchemilla Mollis (Lady's Mantle) ... Creeping thyme. ... Sedum spurium 'Dragons Blood' ... Bergenia. ... Heather.More items...•
What can you plant where you can't mow?
8 Plants for Wild Lawns That Do Not Require MowingRed Clover for Wild Lawns. Red clover is very cheap—we're talking about four dollars for 4,000 square feet. ... Sweet Woodruff. ... Buffalo Grass. ... Evergreen Moss. ... Dutch Clover. ... Snow-In-Summer. ... Videos About Low-Maintenance Lawns. ... Want to Learn More About Low-Maintenance Lawns?
Will hostas grow on a hill?
Slopes can easily be covered with hostas, pachysandra, vinca, or wild ginger that do much better in shade than grass. Many bloom attractively and are lower maintenance than turf (since they don't need mowing).
What plants can be used as ground hugging plants?
Low growing ground hugging plants work nicely with taller woody perennials, ornamental grasses, and low growing shrubs. For a basic look that will solve erosion issues, use one variety of ground cover and buy in bulk to save money. Creeping ground covers are easy to plant and quick to establish.
How to protect creeping ground cover from rain?
This can be done by covering them with netting or a light layer of straw (not hay).
How to keep a plant from drying out?
This can be done by covering them with netting or a light layer of straw (not hay). The straw also provides shade and keeps the soil from drying out until the plants are strong enough to stay on their own.
Is Pachysandra a good shrub?
Pachysandra is good for hillsides and slopes in part sun to full shade. Easy to grow. Dense evergreen foliage. Low, compact fast grower.
Is Big Blue Liriope a good plant?
Big Blue Liriope is good for difficult sites. Strong grower that looks like a small grass. Purple spike flowers. Evergreen.
Can you plant weeds on slopes?
The area becomes a terrible version of itself complete with erosion. But, there is good news! You can successfully plant on slopes and hillsides where they become an attractive part of the landscape.
Can creeping ground covers be mixed?
Creeping ground covers are easy to plant and quick to establish. Best not to mix vigorous plants that will compete with each other. For example, vinca and wintercreeper would not be good companion plants. They grow about the same rate and will attain the same height range.
How to Choose Plants for Hillside Landscape?
So firstly, evaluate the pitching and runoff measurements. If it exceeds 30 degrees, it is a good deal to start and prepare the area for planting. If everything is well from top to bottom, then it will prevent soil erosion and moisture problems.
Why is hillside landscaping important?
Hillside landscaping has many benefits, one of the benefits is that landscapes are economically viable. They also improve quality of life, with fresh air. Grass and trees which are planted on the landscape provide the cool temperature.
What color are slope pants?
They are delicate, just like the classic maple tree, and they are a great choice for slope planting. Various colors like red, purple, green, and gold can be found for these pants, which is a plus point.
What are some examples of groundcovers?
It gives the slope a finished look and prevents runoff. Some of the examples for groundcovers are ajuga, chicks, hen, and thyme. They act as stabilizers by increasing the quality of plant growth.
Why are sage trees good for hillside?
They are considered the best choice for hillside landscapes because they are sturdy, dense, and reliable enough. Drained soil is best suited to them, and they don’t prefer standing water. Make sure to check all the plant requirements before placing them in a particular area.
Can turfgrass be used on hillsides?
The best option is to use combined varieties of plants. Less maintenance can help you to choose a better hillside landscape.
Is snow on the ground good for plants?
They are very durable and flexible for flowering many plants. Being snow on the ground does not make a difference to these plants because they can easily sprout up. The flowers for these plants come in different colors and many patterns. For effective results, plant them in a shaded area or dappled shade.
What is better, a terraced plant bed or a hillside?
As we mentioned, that can be very boring, visually. Terraced plant beds with multiple levels of plantings (as well as different plant species) is a better option that will create visual interest and also break up your hillside. With plantings broken up into different areas, the hillside may also be easier to maintain.
Is a steep slope a good location for a waterfall?
If you’re interested in a water feature, then a steep slope is actually the ideal location for one . Whether it’s a cascading waterfall that runs down a series of boulders for a more natural look or an architectural design with formal stonework for a more modern look, a custom water feature will definitely add visual interest to your hillside.
Is a steep slope drought tolerant?
It’s ideal to choose more drought-tolerant plants since steep slopes are usually more of a dry microclimate. You should also choose plants that will require little maintenance as they mature since steep slopes can be difficult to traverse.
Is it dangerous to plant on banks?
A failed retaining wall, for instance, is also a serious hazard .
What is the best grass to plant on a hillside?
Maiden Grass is another clumping plant that is eye-catching when planted in large numbers. Dwarf varieties work especially well on hillsides. It’s deer resistant and likes part to full sun.
Do evergreens absorb moisture?
And trees such as evergreens are great, but if you choose one with a tap root (a root that grows vertically downward) such as a spruce, they absorb moisture but don’t hold the soil in place. Over time, the ground slides away and the plant dies.
Does Siberian Cypress need sun?
New varieties are tougher and more cold-hardy. Look for varieties such as ‘Celtic Pride.’ Siberian cypress needs sun but tolerates some shade, too.
Does fountain grass grow in full sun?
There are many different types and heights, so read the label so you know what you’re buying. Fountain grass does best in full sun.
Is Russian Sage drought tolerant?
It’s drought tolerant once established and attracts hummingbirds! Look for types such as ‘Denim ‘N Lace.’ Russian sage needs full sun.
Do landscape roses need full sun?
Landscape roses are a gorgeous solution for gentle slopes. They cover large areas, don’t need pruned or sprayed and offer colorful blooms all season long. Look for groundcover or spreading types such as ‘Drift.’ All roses need full sun.
What is the best ground cover for slopes?
You’re likely looking for small plants for filling this rather tall order! Turf grass is one of the most popular ground covers for keeping soil in place, ...
What is the best way to stabilize slopes?
A mixed planting of native grasses, herbaceous and woody ground covers, shrubs and trees, if space allows, is the best strategy for slope stabilization. Some nurseries feature blends for slope stabilization.
What is temporary mulch?
Temporary living mulch such as annual rye or wheat can be used to provide quick cover of the ground but will then die back as the permanent plantings get established . There are a number of plant options that offer a lower maintenance alternative to a mowed lawn.
What are the factors that determine the selection of a plant?
In addition to site conditions such as sun exposure, soil condition, soil moisture, existing cover and degree of slope, plant selection will largely depend on size of area to be planted and, of course, your budget. Planting seeds will generally be less expensive than started plants, but plants often will establish cover more quickly than seed.
What plants are good for slopes?
Some plants that work well on slopes include: Burning Bush. Fragrant Sumac. Japanese Yew. California Lilac. Creeping Juniper. Dwarf Forsythia. Snowberry.
What groundcovers are good for a sunny hillside?
Avoid those that need mowing, shearing and other maintenance. Some of the easiest groundcovers for sunny hillsides are: Prostrate Rosemary. Dwa rf Coyote Bush. Vinca. Creeping Myoporum. Rockrose. Cotoneaster.
How to plant a sloping area?
The first steps to planting a sloping area are to evaluate the pitch and runoff. If the pitch is more than 30 degrees, it might be a good idea to terrace the area to prevent topsoil from eroding and all moisture evacuating every time you water or it rains. Once you have solved any moisture retention and erosion problems, it is time to evaluate the site further for exposure and zone, and plan what plants grow on slopes.
What do deep rooted plants do?
Deep rooted plants help stabilize soil, trees add dimension and shade to prevent excess evaporation, and low growing ground covers cover up unsightly areas with ease of care.
Is gardening difficult?
Gardening is always a challenge, but some of us have geographic issues which make the process even more difficult. Sloped properties pose particular challenges with their potential to erode, dry out and their exposure. Solving these problems and finding the right plants for slopes and banks takes some planning and experience.
Is turf grass good for sloping lawns?
Better options might be a combination of different types of plants that are tolerant of wind, occasional drought and have wide branching root zones to anchor them to the incline. The less maintenance, the better when choosing plants for sloping areas .
What is the best tree to grow in the fall?
Hickory (zones 4-8): A tree that can tolerate all soil types and produce tasty hickory nuts in fall. Black cherry (zones 3-9): A tree with flowers that bees love in spring that develop into yummy dark purple berries in summer.
How do trees help with erosion?
How Planting Trees on a Hillside Helps with Soil Erosion. Tree canopies block plenty of rain from reaching the soil in the first place. Then, tree roots act like glue, which helps keep soil in place and reduces the amount of soil washed away. The best trees for hillsides and slopes have hearty, deep roots. Look for a good fit below, then make sure ...
How can we help our trees?
tree planting. We can help our trees help us is by picking the right tree for the right place! Then, trees do a better job of saving us money, providing shade and even reducing noise. To do that, you first need to do some planning.
What happens when rain ishes away tiny bits of topsoil that contain the most nutrients?
Soil erosion happens when rain washes away tiny bits of topsoil that contain the most nutrients. The more it rains, the more natural nutrients your plants lose. And on top of a hill, rainwater runs off much faster and makes this problem worse. But like usual, trees can help!
How to make a hillside stable?
Most hillsides can be made relatively stable with plants . The planting should be a mix of groundcover, shrubs, trees, and perennials with the areas between plants covered with mulch or boulders . A mix of plants and vegetation layers ensure that when it rains, the force of the water hitting the ground is deflected. In most cases, if your slope soil is deeper, a mix of deep-rooted plants like bougainvillea and shallow-rooted plants like monkey flowers or sagebrush are needed to secure the top soil to the bottom rock.
What to do with slopes in backyard?
Backyard slopes can be made into things of beauty, but before landscaping, it’s always a good idea to check with a landscape architect to ensure you’re not creating potential erosion problems. Overall, if you’re still stumped, go with a mixture of deep-rooted California native shrubs, and trees, mixed with shallow-rooted shrubs that are mulched. Do you have a slope in your backyard? What did you do with it?
What Kind of Slope Do You Have?
This is something to keep in mind when you landscape – slope stability .
How to divide a hillside?
Depending on the size of your slope, you can divide hillsides into more manageable sections with retaining walls, which are strong and stable barrier walls usually made of stone, concrete or lumber. These walls can be placed where they will hold back the soil above, and make a space below that can be left as a slope, leveled, or planted. Multiple walls can be placed at different points to create a terraced look. Terraces can range from a few feet wide and used as planting areas to wide expanses. If your is large, some experts recommend putting an 8-10-foot terrace every fifty feet to make your slope much more functional long term.
Why do trees help slopes?
If you have surface soil on solid rock, planting trees helps keep water moving off the slope.
How to get rid of runoff from a slope?
Be sure to irrigate your planted slope, using drip irrigation or soaker hoses, which allow water to soak into the so il and reduce runoff.
What to do if your slope isn't steep?
Paths and Stairs —. If your slope isn’t dangerously steep, enhance its incline with paths or staircases made of stone. If you do have a very steep bank, consider a winding path made of pavers, or bricks that traverses your slope to create less of an incline.
