California Native Plants for Slopes & Erosion Control

Vegetated slopes can benefit from a diverse root system, surface protection and reduced bare soil, but plants alone cannot solve every erosion or drainage problem.

Start with drainage

Concentrated runoff, failed irrigation and unstable soils should be addressed before assuming plants will fix the slope.

Native planting strategy

Use a mix of shrubs, subshrubs and ground-layer plants appropriate to slope aspect, soil and irrigation conditions.

Need slope help?

Earth People combines planting, irrigation and drainage work. Request a slope assessment →


For larger or difficult slopes

When erosion, runoff, irrigation and vegetation overlap, the project needs to be evaluated as a site rather than as a plant list. Earth People coordinates landscape improvements and works with appropriately qualified professionals when structural, engineering or specialty work is required.

Explore Slope, Erosion & Fire-Conscious Projects →

Back to blog