Ask-a-Dave's-Gardener: Ground cover for shaded, sloped area. Drought/deer resistant. Non-invasive, 1 by Sirka

Sirka wrote:
I have a sloped area that was partially excavated to make room for a gate to open that left a cherry laurel without much dirt around its roots and I am worried about it eroding. I thought a ground cover to control erosion and to act as a mulch would be good. I do not want anything too invasive. Austin, TX Zone 8. A bit of sun and bright light in the morning until around 11am -12pm, then bright light and shade.This gate will be used only occasionally - Light foot traffic. We have DEER. Vinca would be too invasive. Silver Pony Foot may work, but I would prefer an evergreen.