Himm erosion - Ask Extension
Hello,
We have a very steep hill that goes down to the river floodplain and tge hill is eroding. The mole activity is not helping this issue.
We ar...
Knowledgebase
Himm erosion #928134
Asked April 12, 2026, 10:25 AM EDT
Hello,
We have a very steep hill that goes down to the river floodplain and tge hill is eroding. The mole activity is not helping this issue.
We are wondering what a good option would be to plant on the hill to help remediate the erosion issues. It is very shaded.
Bonus if it will deter moles and gophers.
See photos for hillside.
Isanti County Minnesota
Expert Response
Consider low-growing, shade tolerant woody plants that spread. Possibilities include gray dogwood, dwarf bush honeysuckle (Diervilla), Gro-low sumac, and Siberian cypress (Microbiota). And perhaps Running Serviceberry (Amelanchier stolonifera) which grows to five feet.
Ground cover perennials are an alternative or they could be used in combination with the woody plants. These include vinca minor, pachysandra, partridgeberry, moneywort, wild ginger, bearberry, and bunchberry.
Mulch and frequent watering will be needed until the plants are well established, perhaps two years. Shredded hardwood is probably best. Avoid chips which often blow or wash away.
Learn more here:
https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/gardening-slopes-and-hillsides
Ground cover perennials are an alternative or they could be used in combination with the woody plants. These include vinca minor, pachysandra, partridgeberry, moneywort, wild ginger, bearberry, and bunchberry.
Mulch and frequent watering will be needed until the plants are well established, perhaps two years. Shredded hardwood is probably best. Avoid chips which often blow or wash away.
Learn more here:
https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/gardening-slopes-and-hillsides
