Planting anything on an incline might seem like more trouble than it's worth. However, if your yard has any slopes, you could be at risk for soil erosion and landslides. The best way to avoid them is to plant trees, shrubs or other plants on the slope to strengthen the ground. Here are some tips for gardening on a slope:
The Best Plants to Grow on a Slope
There are several different types of plants that will grow well on a slope. One type is ground-cover plants that spread out to form a mat of vegetation and roots. Plants that have deep roots and plants that grow multiple stems from the same root are also beneficial. Try ornamental grasses, sprawling shrub roses and clover.
It's also important to consider the environmental needs of the plants you choose. If you have a sunny slope, try catmint, creeping juniper, rosemary and purple coneflower. If your slope is mostly shaded, opt for carpet cypress, periwinkle or pachysandra.
Plants to Avoid
You'll want to avoid planting things that grow tall but have shallow root systems. Some examples of trees to avoid because of their roots would be cottonwood or cypress. Both have shallow roots that make them risky to plant around your home and on a slope. Instead of helping prevent erosion, they might cause more damage if they fall during a landslide.
You'll also want to avoid any invasive species that could threaten the local ecosystem. Some invasive plants, like English ivy and vinca, grow quickly and can invade neighboring yards if not properly maintained. Research what plants might be problematic in your area before you get started with your gardening.
What About Turf?
Most experts will advise against laying grass turf on a slope. However, if the incline is shallow enough and you don't mind the extra mowing effort, turf can work well on some slopes. The key issue with turf on a slope is watering, as water will drain downhill instead of evenly saturating the lawn. Keep this in mind if you live in a particularly dry climate that would require regular watering.
By using any of these ideas you will be able to plant an eye-catching and effective garden on a slope. Consider these options to prevent erosion and protect your property from possible landslides.
About the Author
Kimberly Hering
Kimberly Hering's devotion to helping people achieve their real estate goals stems from her genuine enjoyment of the process. Whatever the task, Kimberly makes it her mission to get it done, however she can, without compromising her client's needs. Often, that means thinking outside the box. After working with Kimberly, clients describe her as being Trustworthy, Creative, Patient, Highly Skilled, Attentive to the Process and having a lot of Integrity.
After spending more than 15 successful years working on Wall Street, Kimberly transitioned into Real Estate, joining Alain Pinel Realtors, then moving to Zephyr, now Corcoran Global Living, in 2018. During her career on Wall Street, Kimberly was a Vice President working as an Institutional Equity Salesperson for Montgomery Securities for 10 years. She covered the top money managers throughout the US and Canada. She joined Jefferies & Co as a Senior Vice President managing the Western Region Institutional Sales group, while continuing to cover the top money managers.
Kimberly leverages her extensive experience selling equities to top money managers throughout the US and Canada, to successfully negotiating any Real Estate transaction seamlessly for her clients. Kimberly is well versed in Marin's neighborhoods, towns, cities, and education system.
Living in the Bay Area for 35 years, 25 years in Marin and having 2 sons in local Marin schools, Kimberly spends a lot of time volunteering in the community and serving on various local Boards. Kimberly has a collection of resources ranging from the best local breakfast spots to vetted contractors. With her reliable list of valuable resources, Real Estate experience and unsurpassed knowledge of Marin's many communities, Kimberly can guide her clients through every aspect of a Real Estate transaction seamlessly.
Relocating to Marin, downsizing, upsizing, first time home buying, final home purchase or sale, or a lot to build a dream home, no matter the undertaking, Kimberly works seamlessly until the job at hand is completed with 100% satisfaction.