17+ Sloping Garden Ideas With Ground Covers

According to University of California research, ground covers are an ideal solution for garden or yard designs on moderate slopes. These plants serve as a substitute for traditional lawn grass and excel at preventing erosion. Their low-growing nature allows them to spread rapidly, anchoring themselves to the soil and forming a solid cover.

Characterized by their ability to grow less than 18 inches tall and spread through rhizomes or trailing roots, ground covers are an effective choice for slopes where stability is paramount.

Correct Plants for Ground Covers

When selecting plant materials for a sloped area, it’s crucial to consider the site conditions, including sunlight exposure, water availability, and soil type. This approach will help you choose the most suitable ground covers that thrive in these conditions. Ideally, you’ll want plants that are both drought-tolerant and native to your region, as they typically require minimal maintenance.

Avoiding machinery such as lawnmowers on slopes is also a priority, ensuring a safer and more aesthetically pleasing outcome.

Ground Covers Work on Moderate Slopes

While ground covers can be used on sloped landscapes under specific circumstances, it’s essential to consider the slope’s angle before implementation. According to research from the University of California Davis, moderate slopes with inclines less than 33% are suitable for using plant materials and mulch to control runoff. However, steeper slopes exceeding 50% will likely require specialized techniques or structural support to ensure stability.

Freeway Daisy

The African or freeway daisy (Osteospermum fruticosum) is an adaptable plant that has earned its name by thriving in the unforgiving environment surrounding California’s freeways, where it receives minimal care and rainfall. This hardy perennial, which can also be grown as an annual in cooler zones, boasts a unique ability to cling to soil and spread rapidly through trailing root systems.

As it grows, it forms mounds or trails, punctuated by an abundance of daisy-like flowers that bloom in a range of vibrant colors including white, yellow, rose, and lavender. With the capacity to thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11 as a perennial, and all zones as an annual, this low-maintenance option is perfect for gardeners seeking a reliable bloomer.

Poppy Mallow

Poppy mallow (Callirhoe involucrate) is another excellent option for a slope groundcover, offering numerous benefits. This drought-resistant species excels on inclines, spreading rapidly and requiring minimal upkeep. Some gardeners may find it becomes invasive, however. A burst of vibrant color will spread throughout your garden from late spring to early fall as poppy mallow blooms in shades ranging from purple to rose to wine.

This low-growing plant reaches up to 1 foot tall and wide with a single specimen. It flourishes in full sun, thriving in USDA Hardiness Zones 3a to 9b.

Yarrow

Yarrow’s versatility makes it a popular choice for slopes and gardens alike. This hardy perennial boasts an impressive bloom period that spans from spring to fall, with the added benefit of producing flowers in a range of colors including cream, yellow, pink, and rose. The foliage is equally attractive, featuring gray or green leaves. While yarrow’s blooms are a treat, its real value lies in its ability to thrive in poor soil conditions, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens.

As the plant spreads through rhizomes, keep a watchful eye to ensure it doesn’t become invasive and take over other areas of your garden. Yarrow is also tolerant of drought, which makes it perfect for water-conscious gardeners. Its ideal growing conditions are in full sun, making it suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 3-9.

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