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Steep Slope Landscaping: Zoysia Removal and Plant Selection

Converting a 10-foot zoysia slope in St. Louis to rock and ornamental plantings requires professional erosion control — zoysia removal destabilizes the slope.

Critical Sequence

Professional assessment: Geotechnical or landscape architect for slope stability.
Phased removal: Remove zoysia in sections as rock/plants install.
Erosion control: Jute netting, straw wattles, or hydroseeding during transition.
Rock installation: Professional — improper rock placement creates slide planes.

Plant Selection Strategy

Visit local growers — see mature specimens.
Prioritize: deep roots, drought tolerance, pest resistance.
Screening candidates: Juniperus virginiana, Viburnum, Ilex, Amelanchier.

Why DIY Fails

Zoysia's dense mat IS the slope stabilization. Removing it without engineered replacement creates liability. Professional design protects your property and neighbors.

Invest in professional slope conversion — the cost of failure far exceeds design fees.

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