What Kind Of Ground Cover Should I Plant On A Slope?

English Ivy

Steep hills in yards have always been an issue, grass may appear to be the way to go. However, anyone who has mowed the lawn on a slope knows it isn’t easy and it could be hazardous. Then there are those slopes where anything doesn’t seem to be growing, they can unattractive and a danger to erosion control. Hillside plants can be the answer to the problem.

You can have the appropriate ground cover for a slope in your yard. Hillside ground covers may be in the form of thick shrubs with deep roots for a woodland look to quick-growing ground covers for a sunlit hill. When picking a ground cover for a slope, you have to use the same standards as you do for flat land: maintenance, sun, and water.

The list below can assist you in picking the right ground cover for a slope. For more suggestions, reach out to a Rochester tree care company.
 
Ground Cover Plants for a Hillside

Vinca Minor/Periwinkle – an evergreen with purple/blue flowers. This is one of the top ground covers for slopes. Thick enough to control weeds, but loose enough to intermingle with crocus and daffodils.

English Ivy – A well-known steep hill ground cover, this vine establishes wherever it touches. Slow to begin, once formed, it swiftly covers the ground and takes out the weeds.

Dead Nettle – a quick-growing ground cover for a shady bank or sunny hills. When this white and green beauty is planted, it will flourish under even most unfavorable conditions.
 
Shrubs for Steep Hill Ground Cover

Roses – many low spreading types out there as well as ever-blooming shrub roses. Practically pest free and low maintenance, roses can be a serious color statement when put together and should be thought of as quick-growing ground covers for sunny slopes regardless if you want erosion or aesthetic appeal.
 
Bearberry – a northwest native, bearberry can be seen in numerous garden and home centers around the nation. It’s a low-spreading evergreen with white-pink flowers and red berries that are favorites with birds.

Euonymus – many prostrate varieties that are the correct ground cover for a hill. Colors go from golden to deep green, and their runners take hold wherever they hit the soil. These amazing shrubs can handle shade too. 

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