Steep slope - planting ideas to save back pain cutting the grass?

[BrendanKearns]

Hi,

Can anyone suggest alternative options than having grass on a steep slope I have. The slope is down my lane so not overly close to the house. Want a low maintenance way of covering the ground without the hassle of having to cut grass.

Please help

Thanks BK

[John McGaw]

Open google.com then insert the search terms 'ground cover plant' (without the quotes) and press the enter key. You will receive a huge number of suggestions. Pick something which suits your growing conditions and budget and go for it. Not knowing anything about your needs other than 'slope' it is impossible for anyone to suggest more -- a sunny fertile south-facing slope in Surrey will be different than a shaded rocky north-facing slope in Sutherland. Prices for ground cover varies all over the map. Buying a half-kilo of crown vetch seeds is cheap. Buying a thousand pre-started Vinca is expensive.

Personally, I'm cursed by about 1/4 of an acre of English Ivy which is eating the strip of woods, bright sun to deep shade, between my house and the road and which has proven to be totally unkillable despite being totally free. I will gladly give it to you and will guarantee that it will grow virtually anywhere but you need to come and dig it up and transport it yourself.

[Jeff Layman]

Any use?