Steep Slope Erosion Control: When Plants Aren't Enough and Walls Are Required

Q: I need something to keep a very steep hillside from eroding. Thought of grass GDOT plants on roadsides—drought tolerant, low maintenance. Any idea?

Depends on slope. For >1:1 (run to rise), only choice is block/timber wall to hold soil. Plants won't suffice. For 2:1, vigorous shrubs like groundcover juniper or Virginia sweetspire + purple muhly grass could work in full sun. GDOT sometimes uses weeping lovegrass and/or Chinese lespedeza—but both can be invasive, not recommended. A landscape architect is trained to assess slopes and recommend strategies. You'd get better results faster by hiring one for a site consult.