Question
Our backyard consists of a high deck that sits atop a full-sun, small yet steep hillside with rocky (shale), clay soil that grows patchy, weedy grass. We have a forsythia and a pink rose of sharon on either side of the deck - both grown up to the deck and doing well. An attempt with topsoil and pachysandra on the hillside failed miserably (too much sun I imagine), and the jury is still out with a limited creeping phlox experiment.

What plants or landscaping ideas do you have to permanently improve the area? The goals are no more mowing and minor landscaping maintenance.


Answer
Keith:
Start by rotary tilling in top soil at the surface where your soil is void of nutrients. Then add a "jute mesh" to hold soil 1"x1" squares. Finally mulch with a good layer of pinestraw or shredded wood over the jute.
After all that's done, cut holes as needed (approx every 3 feet) plant the hill with sun loving plants of your liking. Be sure to pick plants that spread, but not too aggressively and be sure you pick plants hardy in your area. Winter Creeper or many varieties of juniper are good. Consider mixing juniper with grasses and perennials for a wild meadow look, use miscanthus grasses, flowers, herbs, etc.

Best of Luck
Sean J Murphy
www.amenityarchitects.com