How to Grow Ground Covers for Erosion Control
Ground Covers for Erosion Control
Various species (Vinca minor, Juniperus horizontalis, Sedum spp., etc.)
groundcoverGround covers are low-growing plants that spread horizontally to blanket soil, preventing erosion while reducing maintenance needs. These plants stabilize slopes, retain moisture, and suppress weeds while adding aesthetic value to landscapes. Common erosion-control ground covers include periwinkle, creeping junipers, sedums, and ornamental grasses.
When should you plant Ground Covers for Erosion Control in your zone?
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Example Ground Covers for Erosion Control timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Ground Covers for Erosion Control
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Ground Covers for Erosion Control
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Ground Covers for Erosion Control dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Varies by species; most erosion-control ground covers thrive in zones 3-10
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Get my Ground Covers for Erosion Control timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment Phase
4-8 weeksYoung plants rooting into soil; minimal visible coverage; foliage concentrated at planting points
Mulch between plants to suppress weeds and retain moisture. Water consistently. Install erosion matting on steep slopes. Avoid foot traffic.
Early Spreading
8-16 weeksStems and rhizomes expanding outward; 30-50% soil coverage visible; gaps still present between plants
Continue regular watering. Gently guide spreading stems over bare soil. Remove debris that may smother growth. Monitor for erosion in uncovered areas.
Active Growth
3-6 monthsRapid lateral expansion; 60-80% coverage; dense foliage filling spaces between plants; some vertical growth
Reduce watering frequency as drought tolerance increases. Prune or cut back if growth becomes tangled. Begin reducing fertility.
Full Coverage & Maturity
Ongoing, typically 6-12 months from plantingContinuous canopy across slope; complete erosion protection; dense root mat stabilizing soil; minimal bare spots visible
Water only during drought. Annual light pruning or mowing maintains vigor. Apply slow-release fertilizer if growth slows. Monitor for dead patches.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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and
Hand-pick in evening; use beer traps; apply diatomaceous earth; encourage natural predators
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Increase humidity with misting; spray with water forcefully; use miticide if severe
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Spray with insecticidal soap; encourage ladybugs; prune heavily infested areas
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and
(in poor drainage)
Improve drainage; reduce watering frequency; remove dead foliage; apply fungicide if necessary
Uses
Erosion Prevention on Slopes
HouseholdDense root systems bind soil particles and reduce water runoff, preventing topsoil loss on slopes and hillsides. Established ground covers can reduce erosion by up to 90% compared to bare soil. [source]
Weed Suppression
HouseholdContinuous foliage blocks sunlight, preventing weed seeds from germinating and eliminating the need for herbicides. Dense coverage creates an inhospitable environment for invasive weeds. [source]
Moisture Retention & Runoff Reduction
HouseholdGround cover canopies intercept rainfall, reducing impact on soil and allowing gradual infiltration rather than rapid runoff. This decreases water loss and recharges groundwater. [source]
Habitat & Biodiversity Support
WildlifeDense ground covers provide shelter and nesting sites for beneficial insects, spiders, and ground-nesting birds. Many species produce flowers attractive to pollinators. [source]
Low-Maintenance Landscaping & Cost Savings
HouseholdOnce established, most ground covers require minimal mowing, watering, or chemical inputs compared to lawn grasses. This reduces labor, water use, and input costs over time. [source]
Harvest Tips
Ground covers are not typically harvested, but stems can be divided and transplanted for propagation. Cut or divide established plants in spring or fall to create new plantings.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 A single creeping juniper plant can spread 20+ feet horizontally while remaining only 1-2 feet tall, forming a dense erosion-control blanket on slopes.
- 🌱 Sedums and succulents used as ground covers can survive with as little as 10 inches of annual rainfall, making them ideal for arid regions prone to erosion.
- 🌱 Native ground covers like bearberry and kinnikinnick have been used by Indigenous peoples for millennia to stabilize slopes while providing food and medicinal benefits.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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