Best Trees To Plant On Hillsides & Slopes (Evergreen & Shade)

We can help our trees help us is by choosing the right tree for the right place! These trees will do a better job of saving us money, providing shade and even reducing noise.

To do that, you first need to do some planning. That’s why Cedar, a blog reader in Ohio asked, “Can a willow grow at all on a gentle but significant slope?”

Find out how the right tree on your hillside can thrive and prevent erosion, too!

What To Plant On A Slope To Prevent Erosion

Soil erosion happens when rain washes away tiny bits of topsoil that contain the most nutrients. The more it rains, the more natural nutrients your plants lose. And on top of a hill, rainwater runs off much faster and makes this problem worse. But like usual, trees can help!

How Planting Trees On A Hillside Helps With Soil Erosion

Tree canopies block plenty of rain from reaching the soil directly in the first place. Roots help keep soil in place and reduce the amount of soil washed away.

The best trees for hillsides and slopes have hearty, deep roots. Look for a good fit below, then make sure
it’s in your growing zone!

Best Evergreen Trees For Slopes

• Douglas fir (zones 4-6): A tall, pyramidal evergreen tree with emerald needles that you may have used as a Christmas tree
• Monterey pine (zones 7-10): A fast-growing, tall evergreen with its bushy green needles
• Dr. Hurd Manzanita (zones 7-10): An evergreen with dark bark, light green leaves and darling white flowers
• Manuka (zones 9-11): A multi-branched evergreen, bursting with white-petaled flowers

Best Shade Trees For Slopes

• Sugar maple (zones 3-8): A classic tree with some of the best fall color
• White oak (zones 3-10): A tall, round stately tree with vibrant red fall leaves
• California Coast live oak (zones 7-10): A breathtaking tree with a wide canopy of crinkled leaves and pointy acorns
• Red alder (zones 7-10): A narrow, cone-shaped tree with silver-green leaves

Now that you picked a tree, learn the best time to plant it!