Erosion control - Ask Extension
I live in Kalamazoo, Michigan 49008. We have an erosion issue on a small hill. Our goal is to prevent erosion by planting vegetation that requires lit...
Knowledgebase
Erosion control #867446
Asked May 07, 2024, 2:50 PM EDT
I live in Kalamazoo, Michigan 49008. We have an erosion issue on a small hill. Our goal is to prevent erosion by planting vegetation that requires little or no maintenance. Currently, straw wattles are used to slow the flow of water. Also, there is a variety of vegetation on the hill that is sparsely planted including vinca and pachysandras. The subject area is a mix of sun and shade. We have a lot of vinca available in our woods that can easily be transplanted as a solution.
- Is vinca a good solution?
- What other plants do you recommend that require little or no maintenance?
Kalamazoo County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello George,
Ground cover plants are becoming very popular with homeowners who are tired of maintaining a perfect lawn or trying to deal with a difficult area. The concept of what makes a good ground cover has changed over the years. Ground covers can feed the pollinators, enrich the soil, and help with soil erosion. The 2 you mentioned, vinca and pachysandra, along with Lily of the Valley, have fallen out of favor because of their aggressive behavior.
If you're willing to think outside the box, the following articles will give you a variety of suggestions that can suit your needs.
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/smart_gardeners_replace_worn_out_turf_with_thrifty_ground_covers
https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/good-growing/2022-05-06-designing-ground-ground-covers-your-landscape
https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-news/ground-covers-gardens
For shady areas:
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/shady_lawn_alternatives
I realize I have given you a lot of references, but I hope you will scan through them. You will find that there are many options for you to consider. You can choose only one type of plant for the entire area, or mix grasses with sedges and native plants for a natural garden look. After the plants are established, they will not need much attention.
I hope this gives you some good ideas, but please contact me again if you have more questions or need further information.
Have a great Spring!
Ground cover plants are becoming very popular with homeowners who are tired of maintaining a perfect lawn or trying to deal with a difficult area. The concept of what makes a good ground cover has changed over the years. Ground covers can feed the pollinators, enrich the soil, and help with soil erosion. The 2 you mentioned, vinca and pachysandra, along with Lily of the Valley, have fallen out of favor because of their aggressive behavior.
If you're willing to think outside the box, the following articles will give you a variety of suggestions that can suit your needs.
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/smart_gardeners_replace_worn_out_turf_with_thrifty_ground_covers
https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/good-growing/2022-05-06-designing-ground-ground-covers-your-landscape
https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-news/ground-covers-gardens
For shady areas:
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/shady_lawn_alternatives
I realize I have given you a lot of references, but I hope you will scan through them. You will find that there are many options for you to consider. You can choose only one type of plant for the entire area, or mix grasses with sedges and native plants for a natural garden look. After the plants are established, they will not need much attention.
I hope this gives you some good ideas, but please contact me again if you have more questions or need further information.
Have a great Spring!
