Native Shade Planting on Sloped Site

Native slope planting with young perennials and shrubs mulched along a curved stone edge beside a driveway in Upstate South Carolina.
Newly installed native ecological garden on a sloped driveway edge with stone drainage border and erosion-controlling plant layout.

Overview

This project focused on reworking a sloped, shaded area that had previously been planted in turf but was difficult to maintain and challenging to mow. The goal was to replace an underperforming lawn with a planting better suited to the site’s conditions and the client’s long-term needs.

Native plants were introduced to improve usability, reduce maintenance demands, and create a landscape that feels intentional rather than problematic.

Scope of Work

  • Site evaluation with emphasis on slope, shade, and access challenges

  • Removal of turf in an area difficult to mow and maintain

  • Selection of native plants suited to low light and sloped conditions

  • Layout and planting to improve coverage and long-term performance

  • Installation focused on establishment and durability

Design Considerations

Key considerations included slope stability, soil retention, plant adaptability, and visual continuity across the site. Native species were selected for their ability to perform well in shade while also helping stabilize the slope over time.

The planting design prioritizes coverage and layered growth, allowing the area to transition from a maintenance challenge into a functional part of the landscape.

Outcome

The completed planting replaces a difficult-to-maintain lawn with a resilient native landscape better suited to the site. Over time, the planting continues to stabilize the slope, reduce maintenance demands, and improve the overall usability and appearance of the area.

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Kitchen Garden with Seating and Shade for Comfort

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Raised Garden Beds Built into a Sloped, Underutilized Site