Question
I live in St. Louis.  I have about a 10 foot slope at the back of my lot that is hard to mow due to steepness of the hill.  It is covered with zoysia and there is a fence at the bottom on the property line.

Since I don't want the expense of a retaining tiered wall, I am considering rocking the slope and putting some kind of ornamental trees/shrubs.  Privacy would be a plus.   More importantly, disease and pest resistance.

Do you have any ideas?

Thanks.
Pat

Answer
Pat,

I don't blame for wanting to get rid of the sloped turf area.  

Without seeing the area it is hard to make recommendations.

One thing to consider is the removal of the zoysia.  This turf is keeping the hill from eroding and replacing with rock should be complete by a professional.  You don't want to create a problem.

For plant selection go to a local grower and see what impresses you, especially since you want screening potential.

Good luck in the garden.

Gary