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Best Ground Cover For Slopes (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for an effective way to protect your sloped garden from erosion, ground cover is the answer. Not only does it prevent soil from slipping, but it also adds a beautiful and natural touch to your landscape. However, before you start shopping, there are a few factors to consider to ensure you select the perfect ground cover for your slopes.

Firstly, you need to think about the conditions of your slope. Do you live in a rainy area? Is your slope south-facing and exposed to the sun? Consider if your chosen ground cover can tolerate the amount of sun, shade, and moisture in your area. Secondly, think about the aesthetic you are trying to achieve. Do you want a low-maintenance option that covers large areas quickly? Or, are you looking for something that adds texture and color to your slope? Finally, consider the maintenance required for the ground cover. Some options require more attention than others, so choose one that suits your lifestyle.

Looking for the best ground cover for slopes can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right information, you can make a confident and informed decision. Are you tired of constantly battling soil erosion? Want to add some character to your garden? Curious about the different ground cover options? Keep reading to discover all you need to know about finding the perfect ground cover for your slope.

10 Best Ground Cover For Slopes

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This ground cover is ideal for areas with drought and cold weather conditions, as it is evergreen and tolerant to both.
2
This product is ideal for erosion control on hills and slopes, trusted by contractors and homeowners across America.
3
Ideal for preventing soil erosion on slopes and providing excellent ground cover with 50 plants of Blue Pacific Juniper liners.
4
Ideal for stabilizing and reinforcing ground surfaces with gravel, suitable for patios, sheds, slopes, driveways and parking lots.
5
This product is ideal for creating a low-maintenance lawn that requires less watering and fertilization.
6
Ideal for providing drought-tolerant ground cover with cold hardy evergreen foliage in large quantities.
7
This product is ideal for erosion control, ground covers, lawn alternatives, pasture and forage.
8
This plant is ideal for use as Asian ground cover, fully rooted with soil, adding beautiful foliage to your outdoor space.
9
The product is ideal for landscaping, parking lots, and heavy load resistance due to its thickness and high strength.
10
Ideal for cleaning above/in-ground flat pools up to 40 feet, lasts 90 min and has LED indicator & self-parking feature.
This ground cover is ideal for areas with drought and cold weather conditions, as it is evergreen and tolerant to both.
This product is ideal for erosion control on hills and slopes, trusted by contractors and homeowners across America.
Ideal for preventing soil erosion on slopes and providing excellent ground cover with 50 plants of Blue Pacific Juniper liners.
Ideal for stabilizing and reinforcing ground surfaces with gravel, suitable for patios, sheds, slopes, driveways and parking lots.
This product is ideal for creating a low-maintenance lawn that requires less watering and fertilization.
Ideal for providing drought-tolerant ground cover with cold hardy evergreen foliage in large quantities.
This product is ideal for erosion control, ground covers, lawn alternatives, pasture and forage.
This plant is ideal for use as Asian ground cover, fully rooted with soil, adding beautiful foliage to your outdoor space.
The product is ideal for landscaping, parking lots, and heavy load resistance due to its thickness and high strength.
Ideal for cleaning above/in-ground flat pools up to 40 feet, lasts 90 min and has LED indicator & self-parking feature.

1. 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

2. 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

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. Geostab Grid: Stabilize Any Terrain With Ease.

Introducing the BaseCore geocell, a highly durable and stable solution for areas with poor or unstable soil. The BaseCore geocell is made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which provides excellent resistance and stability to all common elements found in soils, as well as protection against ultraviolet degradation. Its high tensile strength allows it to withstand large amounts of lateral force, making it effective in all climates. For a Xtra Duty version, customers can look to the BaseCore HD line.

Using BaseCore can save both time and money. By eliminating further erosion, it allows for immediate foot, horse, or vehicle traffic mobility. This eliminates the need for costly repairs and maintenance that would otherwise be required. Installation of BaseCore is also very easy, and does not require heavy equipment. This makes it a convenient and cost-effective solution for a variety of applications.

Pros

  • Made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), providing excellent resistance and stability to all common elements found in soils
  • High tensile strength allows it to withstand large amounts of lateral force, making it effective in all climates
  • Eliminates further erosion and allows for immediate foot, horse, or vehicle traffic mobility, saving time and money
  • Easy to install without heavy equipment, making it a convenient and cost-effective solution

5. 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.

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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

9. Super Strong Vodaland Geo Grid – Heavy Load Pro

The Standartpark Geo Grid is a versatile solution suitable for driveway installations on slopes and flat areas. It is an ideal choice for various projects such as parking lots, landscaping, and any other application that requires withstanding a heavy load. Made from durable polyethylene material, this grid lasts a long time and can hold any type of aggregate or filling. The polyethylene is recycled and supersonic welded, ensuring maximum strength and resistance.

With a tensile strength of 1885 LBS/SQ FT, the Standartpark Geo Grid is capable of supporting heavy loads and high volumes of foot traffic. It also helps to prevent further erosion in areas with poor or unstable soil. The installation process is easy and straightforward. Simply spread out the material, anchor it to the ground, and fill the cells with soil, grass, sand, or gravel. The grid comes in dimensions of 9 x 17 FT per unit, with a thickness of 4 inches and a coverage area of 160 sq ft. It can be cut and attached to each other easily, making it a versatile solution for a wide range of applications.

Pros

  • Durable polyethylene material that lasts a long time and can hold any type of aggregate or filling
  • High tensile strength of 1885 LBS/SQ FT capable of supporting heavy loads and high volumes of foot traffic
  • Helps to prevent further erosion in areas with poor or unstable soil
  • Easy and straightforward installation process
  • Versatile solution suitable for various projects such as parking lots, landscaping, and any other application that requires withstanding a heavy load
  • Can be cut and attached to each other easily for added versatility

10. Aiper Seagull: Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner

Say goodbye to messy hoses and tangled cords with Seagull SE Cordless Pool Cleaner! This hassle-free cleaner is designed to make your pool cleaning process a breeze. It is completely cordless, making it easy to power on and submerge in the pool to begin cleaning automatically. The Seagull SE is ideal for round above-ground pools (up to 33' diameter) and in-ground flat-floored pools (up to 40' X 20').

The Seagull SE is equipped with a newly designed battery that only takes 2.5 hours to fully charge and provides over 90 minutes of cleaning capabilities. With its powerful dual-drive motors, the Seagull SE can easily track down and collect different types of dirt and debris. It features two independent brushes that give your pool a deep clean, leaving it spotless and sparkling.

No need to worry about the battery running out of charge! The Seagull SE has a self-parking feature that automatically stops the cleaner near the edge of the pool when the battery is low. Additionally, the included hook makes retrieving the Seagull SE a breeze without the need to get wet. The cleaner is also equipped with four 4-color LED lights that communicate the device's status.

With a 1-year warranty and worry-free customer service, the Seagull SE Cordless Pool Cleaner is the perfect tool to let your robot do the dirty work, while you get your weekends back! Enjoy pool parties and family time without any worries of cleaning the pool. Get your Seagull SE Cordless Pool Cleaner today!

Pros

  • Completely cordless and hassle-free
  • Ideal for round above-ground pools (up to 33' diameter) and in-ground flat-floored pools (up to 40' X 20')
  • Newly designed battery only takes 2.5 hours to fully charge and provides over 90 minutes of cleaning capabilities
  • Equipped with powerful dual-drive motors and two independent brushes for deep cleaning
  • Self-parking feature and included hook make retrieving the cleaner easy
  • Comes with a 1-year warranty and worry-free customer service

Best Ground Cover For Slopes FAQs

Are there any low-maintenance ground cover options for slopes that require minimal watering and upkeep?

Yes, there are several low-maintenance ground cover options for slopes that require minimal watering and upkeep. One such option is creeping thyme, which is a hardy plant that can withstand drought and requires only occasional watering. Another option is ornamental grasses, which are extremely hardy and require very little maintenance once established. Sedum is another low-maintenance ground cover option that is drought-resistant and can thrive in poor soil conditions. Additionally, there are several types of ground covers that are native to specific regions and are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. These plants are often well-suited to slopes and require minimal watering and upkeep. Ultimately, the best ground cover option will depend on the specific conditions of the slope, as well as the desired aesthetic and functional goals. Consulting with a local nursery or landscape professional can help determine the best options for a particular site.

Can ground covers be used as erosion control on steep slopes?

Yes, ground covers can certainly be used as a form of erosion control on steep slopes. Ground covers are an ideal solution for slopes as they help to stabilize the soil, reduce erosion, and prevent the loss of nutrients. They are also a great way to add aesthetic appeal to the landscape, while providing a natural and eco-friendly solution to the problem of soil erosion. There are many types of ground cover plants that can be used for this purpose, including creeping phlox, sedum, and creeping juniper. These plants are low-growing and spread quickly, forming a dense mat of foliage that helps to hold the soil in place. Additionally, ground covers also help to conserve moisture and improve soil health, making them a great choice for areas with steep slopes. Overall, ground covers offer an effective and sustainable solution for controlling erosion on steep slopes, while also adding beauty and value to the landscape.

How do I choose a ground cover that will thrive on a steep slope with poor soil quality?

Choosing a ground cover that will thrive on a steep slope with poor soil quality can be a challenge. However, there are several options that can work well in these conditions. One of the most effective options is to choose ground covers that are native to your area. Native plants are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, so they are often more resilient than non-native plants.

Another important factor to consider is the type of ground cover you choose. Some ground covers, such as grasses and sedges, have deep root systems that can help stabilize the soil on a steep slope. Other options, such as creeping phlox or creeping thyme, have shallow root systems but can help prevent erosion by covering the soil surface.

When choosing a ground cover for a steep slope with poor soil quality, it is important to consider its growth habits. Some ground covers, such as ivy, can become invasive and difficult to control. Others, such as moss, may not be able to withstand foot traffic or other types of disturbance.

Ultimately, the best ground cover for your situation will depend on a variety of factors, including your specific soil conditions, climate, and the amount of sunlight and water the area receives. Consulting with a local gardening expert or landscaper can be a great way to get personalized advice and recommendations for your particular situation.

How do I properly plant and maintain ground cover on a slope to prevent soil erosion and promote growth?

Planting and maintaining ground cover on a slope is an effective way to prevent soil erosion and promote growth. The first step is to choose the right type of ground cover for your specific slope. Some great options include creeping thyme, creeping phlox, and creeping juniper. These plants have dense root systems that help hold the soil in place and prevent erosion.

To properly plant ground cover on a slope, start by preparing the soil. Remove any weeds or debris and loosen the soil. Then, add a layer of compost or other organic material to provide nutrients for the plants. Next, plant the ground cover in a staggered pattern, spacing them out evenly. Be sure to water the plants regularly to help them establish roots and promote growth.

To maintain the ground cover, it's important to prune and trim regularly to prevent overgrowth and ensure healthy growth. Also, be sure to monitor the soil moisture levels and water as needed, especially during hot and dry weather.

In summary, planting and maintaining ground cover on a slope requires careful selection, preparation, planting, and maintenance. With the right approach, ground cover can effectively prevent soil erosion and promote growth on your slope.

What are the best ground cover options for slopes in areas with heavy rainfall?

When it comes to slopes in areas with heavy rainfall, erosion can be a major concern. Ground cover options that can help prevent erosion include plants that have deep roots, such as shrubs and trees. Some excellent choices for ground cover on slopes include creeping phlox, creeping juniper, and periwinkle. These plants can help hold the soil in place and prevent erosion while also providing an attractive landscape feature. Another option is to use ground cover mats or blankets, which are made from materials such as coconut fibers or jute and can be used to stabilize the soil until plants have had time to establish themselves. No matter which option you choose, it's important to select plants or materials that are appropriate for the specific slope and rainfall conditions in your area. Consulting with a local landscaping professional can help you choose the best ground cover options for your needs.

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