On a slope in full sun the following grows well: the fastest to root the slope is the pennywort (Lysimachia nummularia, blooming in June-July with many yellow flowers) or a strawberry meadow (variety ‘Florika’ with many very tasty medium-sized fruits). You can also use golden strawberry (Waldsteinia ternata), which weaves a dense, absolutely low-maintenance carpet. The evergreen (Vinca minor) with blue flowers in spring would also be suitable for slope planting, but it is poisonous. The classic remains of course ivy. Here you can surely get many cuttings from friends and acquaintances. All these plants tolerate both sun and shade.
Basically, you can also plant the entire slope with so-called pioneer shrubs (such as willow, birch, etc. and small ornamental shrubs) and ground cover perennials such as cranesbill. They tolerate drought and at the same time green larger areas. Ground cover roses, such as the hardy variety ‘Bonica’ also hold up well on sloping terrain. The plants must all have the qualities to form roots quickly, that is, to find a foothold and cope with drought. In a good nursery and garden center, the experts can show you many plants with just these qualities.
Planting on a slope can present some unique challenges, including erosion control and soil retention. However, many plants can thrive on a slope with proper planning and care. When selecting plants for a sloped area, consider those that have strong root systems, can help prevent erosion, and can adapt to the specific conditions of your slope, such as sun exposure, soil type, and moisture levels.
Here are some types of plants that often grow well on slopes:
- Groundcovers: Groundcovers are excellent for slopes as they help control erosion, stabilize the soil, and provide a uniform cover. Some suitable groundcovers for slopes include:
- Creeping Juniper (Juniperus horizontalis): Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance groundcover with dense, spreading growth.
- Sedum: Succulent groundcovers like stonecrop are ideal for slopes as they are drought-resistant and require minimal care.
- Cascading Perennials: Plants like Aubrieta and creeping phlox spill over the edges of slopes, adding color and texture.
- Grasses: Grasses with strong root systems can be effective in stabilizing slopes. They help control erosion and add a natural look to the landscape. Consider:
- Blue Fescue (Festuca glauca): A clumping ornamental grass with a mounding habit.
- Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum): Native grass with strong root systems, suitable for erosion control.
- Shrubs: Shrubs can provide stability to slopes, offer wildlife habitat, and add visual interest. Some appropriate shrubs include:
- Barberry (Berberis): Many berberis varieties are well-suited for slopes and provide color in both foliage and berries.
- Cotoneaster: A range of cotoneaster species and cultivars can help with soil retention on slopes.
- Perennials: Planting a variety of perennials can create a dynamic and visually appealing slope. Choose perennials that are well-adapted to your region and slope conditions:
- Daylilies (Hemerocallis): These hardy perennials come in various colors and adapt well to slopes.
- Coreopsis: Threadleaf coreopsis and other varieties offer vibrant, daisy-like flowers and are drought-tolerant.
- Native Plants: Native plants are often well-suited to the local ecosystem, making them excellent choices for slopes. They have adapted to the specific climate and soil conditions of the region.
- Terraced Planting: On steeper slopes, terracing can be used to create level areas for planting. Terracing helps manage water runoff and provides flat surfaces for planting a wider variety of plants, including vegetables, herbs, and flowers.
Remember to prepare the soil properly, provide adequate mulch to reduce erosion and retain moisture, and consider irrigation or a drip system to ensure plants receive enough water, especially on dry or hot slopes. Additionally, regular maintenance, such as weeding and pruning, is essential to keep your sloped garden healthy and attractive.
