Hard to mow front yard hillside

Roanoke, VA(Zone 7a)

My front yard begins at the street with a steep hill (steeper in person than in photo!). Mowing it is a chore. I want to plant mainly evergreen type plants and maybe place some rocks to create a combination rock/cottage garden look. I'd like it pretty year-round with minimal care. I really don't like the look of tiers for here because the hill curves around and up the driveway some too and would cost substantially more! How do you begin such a project and avoid erosion while things take hold? Also the area gets full sun all day. I'd like a variety of plants vs. a blanket of one type. What plants would you suggest for SW Virginia?

Thumbnail by crafti_trish
central, NJ(Zone 6b)

There was a HGTV curb appeal episode that fit your situation, I am still looking for it. It takes just sections of the hill and levels it with flat stones and then interplanted it so it's not a retaining wall per se. When I find it I'll post the link for ya.

Roanoke, VA(Zone 7a)

Thanks flowerjen! In my photo it looks like the entire yard slopes, but the top is fairly flat and then drops about where the trees are on the corner. I might need to use a tier or two in order to level and "retain" the actual yard before dropping down the slope. Here's a side view of the slope.

Thumbnail by crafti_trish
central, NJ(Zone 6b)

This is kinda what I was talking about but with a little more stones thru out.
http://www.hulu.com/watch/35362/curb-appeal-the-house-on-the-hill#x-0,vepisode,1,0

Roanoke, VA(Zone 7a)

wow, thanks flowerjen, you really searched and put forth some effort for me. I appreciate your help and it was a great episode!! Very similar to my situation. I was thinking I would need to plant up the entire slope, but they had the plants spaced out pretty far and lots of mulch. That will make this job a lot easier and affordable too, I can always add more plants over time. Removing the grass and placing the rocks will be the hardest work! Wish they would come do my house on a hill. lol Great ideas taking shape. Thanks again!!!

Roanoke, VA(Zone 7a)

thanks moonhowl. Some good information there too! I need more money, muscles and energy and I'd have my entire yard a fairy tale cottage garden.

Prairieville, LA(Zone 9a)

You are welcome trish. Good luck with your yard. Be sure to post pics as it progresses.

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