Planting shrubs on a slope can feel like a tricky puzzle. But with the right approach, you can create a beautiful, stable landscape. This simple slope planting guide will show you how to do it successfully. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right plants to the special planting techniques that ensure your shrubs thrive and help control erosion.
Slopes present unique challenges. Water runs off quickly, taking soil and nutrients with it. The soil can be dry and unstable. Your main goals are to slow that water down, hold the soil in place, and give your new shrubs the best possible start. Don’t worry, it’s a very manageable project when you break it down into clear steps.
How to Plant Shrubs on a Slope – Simple Slope Planting Guide
The core principle for slope planting is terracing, not trenching. You never want to dig a hole that runs straight up and down the slope. This creates a basin that collects runoff and can drown your plant’s roots. Instead, you’ll create small, level terraces.
Step 1: Planning and Plant Selection
Good planning saves a lot of effort later. Start by observing your slope. Note how much sun it gets and how water flows across it after a rain.
Choosing the right shrubs is the most important decision. Look for plants with these characteristics:
* Deep, fibrous root systems: These are excellent for binding soil.
* Drought tolerance: Once established, they’ll handle the drier conditions.
* Low maintenance: You don’t want to fuss on a steep hill.
* Native species: They are often best adapted to your local climate and soil.
Some excellent shrub choices for slopes include:
* Junipers (like ‘Blue Rug’ or ‘Bar Harbor’)
* Cotoneaster
* Rugosa Roses
* Forsythia
* Dwarf Lilacs
* Broom (Cytisus)
* Potentilla
Step 2: Preparing the Slope
Proper prep work makes planting much easier and gives your shrubs a better home.
First, clear the area of weeds, grass, and debris. You can use a shovel or a rented sod cutter for large areas. Its crucial to remove competing vegetation.
Next, test your soil if you can. Slopes often have poor soil. You may need to amend it with compost to improve its structure and water retention. Avoid very sandy or pure clay mixes.
Step 3: The Correct Planting Technique
This is where the “simple slope planting guide” method comes to life. Follow these numbered steps for each shrub.
1. Mark Your Locations: Arrange potted shrubs on the slope where you want them. Stagger them in a zig-zag pattern, not in straight rows. This provides better coverage and erosion control.
2. Dig a Terrace Hole: At each marked spot, dig a hole that is 2-3 times wider than the root ball. The key is to dig so that the hole is level from side-to-side, creating a flat shelf or terrace. The depth should be so the top of the root ball sits level with or slightly above the surrounding soil on the downhill side.
3. Build a Berm: Use the excavated soil to build a small, crescent-shaped berm on the downhill side of the hole. This berm will act as a dam to catch water and let it soak in.
4. Plant the Shrub: Gently remove the shrub from its container. Loosen any circling roots. Place it in the center of the terraced hole. Ensure it’s sitting straight.
5. Backfill and Water: Backfill the hole with the native soil (mixed with a little compost if needed). Tamp it down gently to remove air pockets. Immediately create a generous watering basin using the berm and extra soil. Water deeply until the soil is saturated.
Staggering and Spacing
Plant in a staggered, triangular grid. This looks more natural and is more effective at covering the ground. Check the mature width of your chosen shrubs and space them accordingly. Its better to plant a bit closer together on a slope for quicker ground coverage.
Step 4: Mulching and Securing
Mulch is non-negotiable on a slope. It prevents erosion, retains moisture, and suppresses weeds.
Use a coarse, fibrous mulch like shredded wood chips or bark. It interlocks and won’t wash away easily. Apply a 2-3 inch layer around each shrub, but keep it a few inches away from the stems to prevent rot.
For very steep slopes or immediate erosion control, use biodegradable erosion control blankets or jute netting over the mulched area. Pin it down with landscape staples. This holds everything in place until the shrub roots take over.
Step 5: Watering and Ongoing Care
The first year is critical for establishing slope shrubs. They will need more frequent watering than plants on flat ground.
Water slowly and deeply to encourage roots to grow down, not just sideways. Soaker hoses or drip irrigation are ideal because they deliver water without runoff. Water in the early morning.
Avoid using a strong spray from a hose, which can dislodge soil. Check soil moisture by digging a small hole near a plant; if the top 2-3 inches are dry, it’s time to water.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
* Planting in vertical holes: This is the biggest error. Always create a terrace.
* Using smooth, round mulch: Pea gravel or smooth stones can slide down the slope. Stick to fibrous, interlocking mulch.
* Underwatering: Assuming rain is enough. Runoff means less water soaks in.
* Choosing invasive plants: Some plants, like certain bamboo, can become a nightmare on a slope.
* Neglecting the berm: That little soil dam is vital for holding water around the roots.
FAQ: Planting Shrubs on an Incline
Q: What is the best time of year to plant shrubs on a slope?
A: Early fall or spring are ideal. Cooler temperatures and natural rainfall help plants establish without heat stress.
Q: Can I just use ground cover instead of shrubs?
A: For severe slopes, a combination is best. Shrubs provide deeper structural roots, while ground covers quickly cover the soil surface. Using both creates a very stable system.
Q: How do I stop mulch from washing away?
A: Use coarse, shredded mulch and erosion control blankets or jute netting pinned over top. The blankets decompose as the plants grow.
Q: Do I need to add topsoil before planting?
A: It’s usually not recommended to add a thick layer of topsoil on a slope, as it can slide. Its better to amend individual planting holes with compost.
Q: What if my slope is extremly steep?
A: For very steep slopes, consider consulting a landscape professional. They might recommend installing retaining walls or terracing with timber before planting.
Planting shrubs on a slope is a rewarding project. It protects your property, adds beauty, and provides habitat for wildlife. By following this simple slope planting guide—focusing on terracing, choosing the right plants, and providing proper aftercare—you’ll create a landscape that is both resilient and lovely for years to come. Remember, the initial effort in planting correctly pays off with less maintenance and more enjoyment down the line.