As a mound of earth that is subject to severe stress, the slope often poses a problem for gardeners. However, with a little common sense and the use of adapted plants, it should be easier than it seems.
Characteristics of the slope
A slope is necessarily steep. Formed by a more or less stable mound of earth, it is exposed to the vagaries of the climate, particularly to erosion due to rainwater runoff along its slopes, digging faults and canyons to the great despair of the gardener.
A slope is in fact structured in 3 distinct parts:
- the lower zone which receives all the rainwater ;
- the slope, which is highly subject to erosion;
- the top where the growing conditions are a little better because the soil warms up faster, but also dries out faster because it is affected by the wind.
Here we are in front of a very gloomy picture but don't panic, effective solutions exist to vegetate this very particular and interesting area because of its relief.
Planting logic
For a successful effect, shrubs and taller plants will be installed on the upper part of the slope, but let's not forget that in full sun, there are particular conditions, so the plants chosen must be able to withstand the wind and a relatively dry soil. These will be the first to be installed, you can then go down gradually without damaging the plants previously installed.
In the sloping part, ground cover plants with fleshy roots will be welcome. They will help to retain the soil with brilliance.
Finally, in the lower part of the slope, small plants that require more nutrients can be installed.
For a successful effect on a slope, a controlled vegetation clutter is essential. Avoid planting in rows and prefer groups of several plants arranged in large colorful patches.
Plants adapted to cover a slope
Rhizomatous and ground cover plants are perfectly adapted to cover a slope.
In height we will choose grasses and bushes resistant to drought such as the magnificent blue ceanothes, teucriums in the same tone or the variegated fusain for its bright foliage. Broom will also do wonders, illuminating the embankment with its golden blooms.
At the edge of the border, install large German irises, which are well known for holding the soil. You can vary the pleasures by introducing a few subjects of different colors in the sloping area. They will be the perfect accompaniment to aerial grasses, St. John's wort, periwinkle or perennial geraniums, as well as beautiful lavender or rosemary plants.
In the lower zone, anything goes, so you can plant annuals to change the decor often, alternating with beautiful perennials that will give it structure. Among them, sedums, erecting plants or campanulas, but also violets or alysses, which are always very flowery.
