Growing Grass on Slopes: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
If your yard has steep slopes, you may have struggled to get grass to grow on them. But don’t worry, it’s possible with the right techniques. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about growing grass on slopes, from choosing the right grass seed to protecting your new lawn.
What Defines Steep Sloping Lawns?
A steep sloping lawn is one that has a grade of 20% or more. This means that the lawn rises one foot in height for every five feet of distance. Lawns with a grade of 15% or more can be dangerous to mow with a riding tractor, as the tractor can overturn.
How to Grow Grass on Slopes
The process of planting grass on sloping lawns is similar to seeding a level lawn area. However, there are some additional tips you can follow to improve your success:
Preparing the Soil
- Grade the area to create a gentle slope at the top and bottom of the hill. This will prevent scalping the top and leaving high grass at the bottom when mowing.
- Condition your soil before planting by incorporating fertilizer and adding lime if needed. This will help grass seedlings become established quicker.
Choosing the Right Grass Seed
- Consider using a deep-rooted grass for hillsides, such as buffalo grass or creeping red fescue. These grasses are better suited for the environmental conditions found on sloping lawns.
Planting the Seed
- Mix the seed with small amounts of soil and compact to prevent the seed from washing away during rainstorms. The recommended ratio is 2 parts seed to 1 part dirt.
- Protect the seed by covering it with straw. On steeper slopes, use mesh fabric, coarse cheesecloth, or burlap to hold the seed in place. Anchor these fabrics to keep them from slipping.
- Consider runoff by building a temporary wood wall with lumber and wood stakes at the top edge of the seeded area.
- On slopes less than 25%, use a slit or slice seeder. The grooves made by the seeder will help hold the seed in place.
- Try hydroseeding. This method uses a sprayer to deliver seed, mulch, fertilizer, and a bonding agent that sticks the mixture to the surface of the ground.
- Install seed blankets. These biodegradable blankets contain seed, fertilizer, and protective covering. Roll them out, tack them down, and water.
Protecting Your New Grass
- Water during dry spells.
- Aerate as needed.
- Set the mower on its highest setting to avoid damage caused by cutting the grass too short.
Additional Tips
- Consider using sod. Laying sod is said to establish quicker than seed. Use wooden stakes to keep the sod from sliding downhill.
- Use sprigs or plugs. Both sprigs (live roots) and plugs (small plants) are more expensive than seeding and take longer to fill in the area, but they work well.
Conclusion
Growing grass on slopes can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. By following the tips in this guide, you can create a beautiful and healthy lawn on even the steepest slopes.
