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Best Ground Cover For Slopes Full Sun (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to protect and beautify your sloping landscape, ground cover might be the solution you’ve been searching for. But before you make your purchase, there are some important factors to consider.

Firstly, take into account the amount of sunlight your slope receives throughout the day. Different ground covers thrive in different light conditions, so ensure you select a plant that can handle full sun exposure. Additionally, take note of the soil type, water drainage, and potential erosion of your slope. By considering these important factors, you can choose the best option that will grow successfully in your location and serve its intended purpose.

Are you tired of looking at a dull, barren slope in your yard? Are you searching for a natural and sustainable way to prevent soil erosion and promote biodiversity? Discover the benefits of a beautiful ground cover for your sunny slope! Join us as we explore the world of plant biology and landscaping to help select the perfect choice for your needs. Let us help you create a lush, attractive landscape you can be proud of!

10 Best Ground Cover For Slopes Full Sun

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This plant is ideal for use as Asian ground cover, fully rooted with soil, adding beautiful foliage to your outdoor space.
2
This ground cover is ideal for areas with drought and cold weather conditions, as it is evergreen and tolerant to both.
3
Ideal for preventing soil erosion on slopes and providing excellent ground cover with 50 plants of Blue Pacific Juniper liners.
4
This product is ideal for erosion control, ground covers, lawn alternatives, pasture and forage.
5
Ideal for providing drought-tolerant ground cover with cold hardy evergreen foliage in large quantities.
6
Ideal for creating low-maintenance ground cover and alternative lawn options in warm-season climates.
7
This product is ideal for landscaping and ground cover with its purple creeping thyme seeds, providing approximately 8000 seeds.
8
Ideal for patching and repairing bare spots in both sunny and shady areas, including high traffic areas.
9
This product is ideal for erosion control on hills and slopes, trusted by contractors and homeowners across America.
10
This product is ideal for creating a low-maintenance lawn that requires less watering and fertilization.
This plant is ideal for use as Asian ground cover, fully rooted with soil, adding beautiful foliage to your outdoor space.
This ground cover is ideal for areas with drought and cold weather conditions, as it is evergreen and tolerant to both.
Ideal for preventing soil erosion on slopes and providing excellent ground cover with 50 plants of Blue Pacific Juniper liners.
This product is ideal for erosion control, ground covers, lawn alternatives, pasture and forage.
Ideal for providing drought-tolerant ground cover with cold hardy evergreen foliage in large quantities.
Ideal for creating low-maintenance ground cover and alternative lawn options in warm-season climates.
This product is ideal for landscaping and ground cover with its purple creeping thyme seeds, providing approximately 8000 seeds.
Ideal for patching and repairing bare spots in both sunny and shady areas, including high traffic areas.
This product is ideal for erosion control on hills and slopes, trusted by contractors and homeowners across America.
This product is ideal for creating a low-maintenance lawn that requires less watering and fertilization.

1. Asiatic Jasmine Minima – 60 Live Plants – Asian Ground Cover Fully Rooted With Soil

Trachelospermum asiaticum, commonly known as Asiatic Jasmine, is an evergreen, vine-like woody plant that is grown, packaged, and shipped exclusively by Florida Foliage. Originally native to Japan and Korea, this low-maintenance groundcover is widely used in landscapes due to its hardiness and drought tolerance. It is perfect for those who want an attractive garden without much effort. In shady areas, it adds texture and variation to the garden.

Asiatic Jasmine is an ideal plant for mass plantings and turfgrass alternatives. Once established, it requires very little maintenance to keep it looking nice. It suppresses weed growth and can tolerate many growing conditions. It requires little mowing, but occasional trimming of its edges is recommended. The plant should be used in low traffic areas as it does not withstand foot traffic well. It is salt-tolerant and can be grown in coastal areas.

This versatile plant can even be grown in containers and hanging baskets. However, it should be noted that too much water, sun, or fertilizer can make it aggressive and unruly. It is easier to control when neglected.

Pros

  • Hardy and drought-tolerant
  • Low maintenance plant
  • Ideal for mass plantings and turfgrass alternatives
  • Suppresses weed growth
  • Salt-tolerant
  • Can be grown in containers and hanging baskets

Cons

  • – Does not withstand foot traffic well
  • – Can become aggressive and unruly with too much water, sun, or fertilizer

2. Juniper Procumbens Nana – 30 Live Plants – Drought Tolerant Cold Hardy Evergreen Ground Cover

The Blue Rug Juniper is a dense, mat-like shrub that spreads from the center with branches that hug the ground. Its new growth is bright green, which turns to bluish-green as it matures. In winter, the shrub's foliage takes on a purple tint, adding a pop of color to any landscape. The foliage and form of this plant are superb when left unpruned, making it an excellent evergreen for group planting on rocky slopes or trained into an upright staked specimen. The dwarf form, known as 'Nana,' features spiny-pointed blue-green needles and grows to a height of 8-12 inches and a spread of 6 feet. It may turn purplish in winter.

This versatile, sprawling ground cover is ideal for rock gardens, foundations, slopes, mass plantings, and cascading over retaining walls. It can tolerate hot, dry locations in full sun and a wide range of soils, although it prefers well-drained, sandy soil. It can even adapt to poor soils and many city air pollutants.

Florida Foliage is proud to grow, package, and ship the Blue Rug Juniper exclusively.

Pros

  • Dense, mat-like shrub with ground-hugging branches
  • Versatile and sprawling ground cover
  • Adapts well to a wide range of soils and growing conditions
  • Excellent evergreen for group planting on rocky slopes or trained into an upright staked specimen
  • Foliage and form are superb when left unpruned
  • Dwarf form known as 'Nana' is available

Cons

  • – May not grow tall enough to provide adequate screening or privacy

3. Blue Pacific Juniper Liners: Erosion-Preventing Ground Cover.

The plants in question may be shipped semi-bareroot, which means they come with a small amount of soil. This is a common practice during the winter season, and it is considered very safe for the plants.

Shipping plants semi-bareroot helps to reduce the weight and volume of the package, making it easier and cheaper to ship. It also allows the plants to go into a dormant state, which helps to protect them during transport.

When you receive your plants, you can simply re-pot them in fresh soil and water them well. They should start to grow and thrive in no time.

Pros

  • Shipping plants semi-bareroot is a safe and common practice during the winter season.
  • It reduces the weight and volume of the package, making it easier and cheaper to ship.
  • Plants in a dormant state are better protected during transport.

Cons

  • – Customers may need to re-pot the plants upon arrival.

4. White Dutch Clover: The Ultimate Lawn Alternative

White Dutch Clover Seed is a versatile perennial that has a wide range of uses, including erosion control, lawn alternative, food plots, green manure crop, pasture mixtures, ground cover, and many more. It can be grown nationwide in USDA Zones 3-10 and is particularly useful for deer food plots, pasture mixtures, erosion control, and cover crops. White Clover is especially helpful in boosting soil nitrogen levels by fixing nitrogen from the air into the soil. Additionally, it can be used as an eco-friendly lawn alternative.

To plant White Dutch Clover Seed, broadcast the seeds onto the prepared soil and lightly rake them in. Keep the seeds moist until they germinate, which usually happens within 14 days at temperatures of 65-70F. For best results, sow the seeds at a rate of 1/4 lb – 1/2 lb per 1,000 square feet or 8 to 10 lbs per acre.

Whether you're looking for an effective erosion control solution, a lawn alternative, or a food plot for deer, White Dutch Clover Seed is an excellent choice that is easy to plant and maintain.

Pros

  • Versatile perennial that can be used for many purposes
  • Boosts soil nitrogen levels
  • Eco-friendly lawn alternative
  • Easy to plant and maintain

5. Blue Rug Juniper – 60 Live Plants – Drought Tolerant Cold Hardy Evergreen Ground Cover

The Silver Blue Juniper is a premium trailing juniper with a uniform and full centered growth habit. It boasts intense silver-blue evergreen foliage that adds a touch of elegance to any landscape. This evergreen has a heavy texture with good color retention year-round, and in extremely cold climates, it may exhibit a slight purple cast during winter. However, this quickly changes back to its normal color with the onset of warmer temperatures in spring.

This low-maintenance evergreen is easy to grow and maintain. It requires a regular watering schedule initially to ensure the growth of a mature root system. Once established, it only needs occasional watering, except during drought conditions when regular watering is essential. Pruning is recommended only during the early stages of growth to encourage branching. Pruning older branches may not encourage new growth.

Its versatility makes it an excellent choice as a sprawling ground cover, rock gardens, foundations, retaining wall edges, mass on slopes for erosion control, and rocky ground. This plant is grown, packaged, and shipped exclusively by Florida Foliage, ensuring the highest quality and best value for your money.

Pros

  • Uniform and full centered growth habit
  • Intense silver-blue evergreen foliage
  • Heavy texture with good color retention year-round
  • Versatile and low-maintenance
  • Grown, packaged, and shipped exclusively by Florida Foliage

Cons

  • – May exhibit a slight purple cast in extremely cold climates during winter

6. Warm Season Ground Cover Alternative – 5 Lb

Dichondra Repens is a fast-growing ground cover plant that is easy to establish from seeds. It has a creeping growth habit and circular leaves, and is a warm-season plant that grows best in USDA Zones 7-11. It can withstand winter temperatures as low as 20-25 degrees Fahrenheit and still maintain its striking green color with only slight leaf browning. This plant is a great alternative to traditional lawn grasses, as it only grows up to 2-3 inches tall and does not need to be mowed. It has broad, almost circular leaves that resemble clover and, when mowed low, establishes a thick, dense carpet look. Dichondra Repens has a bright green color and a soft feel underfoot, making it a popular choice for landscaping areas with no maintenance required. It is also commonly known as Kidney Weed, Dichondra Pony Foot, or Lawn Leaf.

This plant is versatile and can be used in many ground cover situations where normal grasses may not thrive. It is perfect for areas where low maintenance is desired, and it can be mowed for an even, smooth finish when used in lawn situations. To maintain the nicest appearance of Dichondra Repens, it is recommended to mow it approximately every two weeks during the summer months at a height of 1 1/2 – 2 inches. During the winter months, it can be mowed as low as 3/4 of an inch.

Pros

  • Easy to establish from seed
  • Warm-season plant that can withstand winter temperatures as low as 20-25 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Good alternative to traditional lawn grasses
  • Grows up to 2-3 inches tall and does not require mowing
  • Has a bright green color and a soft feel underfoot
  • Versatile and can be used in many ground cover situations
  • Low maintenance required

Cons

  • – May not thrive in cooler climates
  • – Not suitable for areas where a taller grass is desired

7. Purple Thyme – Premium Ground Cover Seeds

For those looking to add an adaptable ground cover to their landscape, the Creeping Thyme (Thymus Serpyllum) is a great option. This perennial herb is a popular choice for its ability to over-winter well in zones 4-9 and can handle moderate foot traffic. As a dwarf ground cover, it is often used to line flower beds or fill gaps between pavers on walkways.

With a net weight of 0.05 oz, this small packet contains approximately 8,000 tiny seeds that can cover a large area. When planting, it is important to press the seeds into the soil rather than covering them. Ensuring good contact between the seeds and soil will increase germination rates. It is best to sow seeds directly outdoors between May and August when temperatures are consistently in the high 60s or above. Dividing established plantings can also be done in March and April.

This low maintenance ground cover can make an excellent alternative to traditional lawns. However, please be advised that if purchasing from a seller other than Utopia Seeds, you may receive incorrect seeds. Creeping Thyme seeds are very small, so be prepared for a small packet.

Pros

  • Adaptive, popular and versatile dwarf ground cover
  • Can handle moderate foot traffic
  • Perennial herb that over-winters well in zones 4-9
  • Approximately 8,000 seeds can cover a large area
  • Good seed to soil contact increases germination rates
  • Can be sowed directly outdoors between May and August
  • Established plantings can be divided in March and April
  • Low maintenance ground cover
  • Excellent alternative to traditional lawns

Cons

  • – Seeds are very small and come in a small packet
  • – Fall plantings should be avoided to protect against freeze damage
  • – May receive incorrect seeds if purchasing from a seller other than Utopia Seeds

8. Ez Seed Patch & Repair Blend – Sun & Shade

Scotts EZ Seed Patch & Repair Sun and Shade is the ultimate solution for restoring damaged lawns and filling in bare spots. The product is designed to provide a combination of high-performance grass seed, mulch, fertilizer, tackifier, and protectant to ensure the growth of healthy and long-lasting grass. The product is perfect for use in areas with full sun or dense shade, high traffic areas, and slopes.

Scotts EZ Seed Patch & Repair Sun and Shade does not require any special preparation before planting. Simply apply the product to the desired area in three easy steps, and watch as the grass grows beautifully. The product covers up to 890 sq. ft. and is suitable for use in the spring or fall when daily average soil temperatures are consistently between 55°F and 70°F, or air temperatures between 60°F and 80°F.

The combination of high-performance grass seed, mulch, fertilizer, tackifier, and protectant in Scotts EZ Seed Patch & Repair Sun and Shade makes it highly effective in restoring damaged lawns and filling in bare spots. The product also ensures that the grass grows evenly and healthy, making it perfect for use in high traffic areas and slopes. The product is highly efficient and requires minimal effort, making it an ideal solution for homeowners looking to restore their lawns quickly and easily.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Effective in filling in bare spots and restoring damaged lawns
  • Suitable for use in full sun or dense shade, high traffic areas, and slopes
  • Covers up to 890 sq. ft.

Cons

  • – Requires consistent soil temperatures between 55°F and 70°F or air temperatures between 60°F and 80°F for optimal growth

9. Ecogrip Erosion Control Netting – 225 Ft Roll

Prevent erosion from damaging your property with Sandbaggy’s Jute Matting. This eco-friendly solution is perfect for those who want to protect the environment while also safeguarding their land. The jute matting is easy to install, simply unroll it down your hillside and secure it with landscape staples. The matting will protect your slope from the harsh winter storms that can cause erosion. The natural jute material used in the matting makes it 100% biodegradable, so you won't have to worry about any clean-up, carbon emissions, or trash in landfills.

Sandbaggy Jute Matting is the number one best-selling erosion control product on the internet. It is made entirely of naturally grown jute plants, and does not use any synthetic materials, which makes it an eco-friendly option for your land. While jute does have a unique smell, it will dissipate after the roll is installed and aired out.

Pros

  • Eco-friendly solution to prevent erosion
  • Easy to install
  • Made of 100% naturally grown jute plants
  • Naturally biodegradable
  • Number one best-selling erosion control product on the internet

Cons

  • – Jute has a unique smell, but it will dissipate after installation

10. Outsidepride Perennial White Miniclover Lawn Clover & Ground Cover Seeds – 5 Lbs, Green

Miniclover is a type of perennial white clover that is used as an alternative to traditional lawns or as a ground cover. It grows to a height of only 4-6 inches after a few mowings and serves as a natural fertilizer because it fixes nitrogen from the air. The seeds of this clover, Trifolium repens, are much better suited for lawns than other white clovers. Additionally, Miniclover is a dwarf variety that only grows to half the height of White Dutch Clover, and its leaf heads are only 1/3 to 1/2 the size.

This microclover is ideal for those who prefer a no-mow lawn. It is a perennial that can be grown in USDA Zones 3-10. Sow 1-2 pounds of clover seeds per 1,000 square feet of lawn for optimal growth.

Pros

  • Miniclover is a natural fertilizer because it fixes nitrogen from the air
  • It is a dwarf variety that only grows to half the height of White Dutch Clover
  • This microclover is perfect for those who prefer a no-mow lawn
  • It is a perennial that can be grown in USDA Zones 3-10

Cons

  • – None found.

Best Ground Cover For Slopes Full Sun FAQs

Can ground covers help prevent erosion on slopes in full sun?

Yes, ground covers can be an effective solution for preventing erosion on slopes in full sun. Ground covers are low-growing plants that spread quickly and cover the soil, creating a protective layer that prevents soil erosion. They also help to retain moisture in the soil, making it less likely to dry out and erode.

When selecting a ground cover for a full sun slope, it is important to choose a plant that is adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. Some popular options for full sun slopes include creeping thyme, creeping phlox, and sedum. These plants are drought-tolerant and can thrive in rocky, well-draining soil.

In addition to preventing erosion, ground covers can also add aesthetic value to a slope by providing a lush, green carpet of foliage. However, it is important to note that ground covers may require some maintenance to keep them looking their best. Regular watering, pruning, and fertilization may be necessary to ensure that the plants remain healthy and vigorous.

How do I choose the right ground cover for a slope in full sun?

Choosing the right ground cover for a slope in full sun is essential to create a beautiful and functional landscape. The ground cover should be able to withstand the harsh conditions of full sun and provide erosion control on the slope. There are several factors to consider when selecting the right ground cover for a slope in full sun.

Firstly, consider the soil type and moisture level of the slope. Some ground covers thrive in well-drained, sandy soil, while others prefer moist, heavy soil. Secondly, consider the height and spread of the ground cover. Choose a ground cover that will not grow too tall and become a safety hazard on the slope. Thirdly, consider the aesthetic appeal of the ground cover. Choose a ground cover that complements the surrounding landscape and creates a cohesive look.

Some excellent ground covers for a slope in full sun include creeping phlox, creeping thyme, sedum, and ice plant. These plants are drought-tolerant, low-growing, and provide excellent erosion control. Ensure to plant them closely to ensure they form a dense carpet to prevent soil erosion. In summary, choosing the right ground cover for a slope in full sun requires careful consideration of soil type, moisture level, height and spread, and aesthetic appeal.

How do I maintain ground covers on slopes in full sun?

Maintaining ground covers on slopes in full sun can be a challenging task, but it is not impossible. Here are some tips that can help you keep your ground covers healthy and thriving:

1. Choose the right ground cover: Opt for ground covers that are well-suited for full sun and slopes. Some good options include creeping juniper, creeping phlox, and woolly thyme.

2. Proper watering: Adequate watering is crucial for healthy ground covers. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Watering in the early morning or late evening will also help reduce evaporation and ensure that the ground cover absorbs as much water as possible.

3. Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your ground covers. This will help retain moisture and prevent weeds from growing.

4. Regular maintenance: Regularly prune and trim your ground covers to keep them looking neat and tidy. Remove any dead or damaged foliage to encourage new growth.

5. Fertilize: Use a slow-release fertilizer to provide your ground covers with the necessary nutrients they need to thrive.

By following these tips, you can maintain healthy and beautiful ground covers on slopes in full sun.

What are the benefits of using ground covers for slopes in full sun?

Using ground covers for slopes in full sun can provide numerous benefits for your landscape. Here are some of the advantages of using ground covers in this scenario:

1. Soil erosion control: Ground covers have a dense growth habit that helps to prevent soil erosion on steep slopes. They help to hold the soil in place and prevent it from washing away during heavy rains.

2. Water conservation: Ground covers can help to conserve water by reducing the amount of water that evaporates from the soil. This is especially important in full sun areas where water can quickly evaporate.

3. Improved soil quality: Ground covers can help to improve soil quality by adding organic matter to the soil. This can help to increase soil fertility and improve the overall health of your landscape.

4. Reduced maintenance: Ground covers require less maintenance than traditional turf grasses. They require less mowing, watering, and fertilization, which can save you time and money.

5. Aesthetic appeal: Ground covers can add beauty and diversity to your landscape by providing a variety of colors, textures, and shapes. They can also provide a natural look that blends well with the surrounding environment.

Overall, using ground covers for slopes in full sun can provide a range of benefits that can improve the health and appearance of your landscape.

What are the best ground covers for slopes in full sun?

When it comes to ground covers for slopes in full sun, there are several options that can thrive in such conditions. One of the most popular choices is creeping phlox, which produces a carpet of colorful flowers in the spring and summer. Another option is sedum, which is a succulent that can withstand drought and heat with ease. Other ground covers that can handle full sun include creeping thyme, woolly yarrow, and ice plant. While these plants are hardy and can withstand harsh conditions, it's important to keep in mind that they will still require some maintenance, including regular watering and occasional pruning. Additionally, it's important to choose a ground cover that is appropriate for the specific slope and soil conditions in your yard, so consulting with a local gardening expert can be helpful in making the best choice.

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