Wild Ones 2002 Archive

QUESTION #10: Plants for steep ditches

As a senior citizen, I am finding it difficult to mow 250 feet of two VERY steep ditches
paralleling my road. They are so steep, the lawnmower sometimes cannot be pushed and
falls over. I have recently allowed the area to go to weed and neighbors are
complaining...(note: there are no young people in my area willing to work for pay).

I thought of terracing the area, but I haven't checked with the county...which I think
has jurisdiction over that. I would like to plant something that would be able to take
conditions...salts from the road graders, dry summer environment. Is there a grass that
only grows 6-8 inches or so, or a grass that lays somewhat flat, or some attractive,
sturdy flowering plant, vine that could be contained with minimal effort?

– Maria of Grand Blanc, MI