Hello
I have a house that backs on to the mud creek ravine on Hudson drive by the pedestrian walkway bridge. I would like to plant things to green up the ravine slope and also help with erosion. Was thinking bamboo but open to other ideas. Area is quite shaded and sloped so not sure how much maintenance i can provide it after planting…any suggestions? Thank you very much for your time
How wonderful to have a ravine lot in the City!
Due to City of Toronto and Metro Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (MTRCA) regulations, you would be required to check with those authorities prior to planting on a ravine slope. There is much concern over invasive species and cultivars that are aggressively taking over the ravines across the GTA.
This question has come up in the past. See comments below.
Erosion due to water or landslides is a problem we are facing in our ravines. Planting to stabilize the soil is always a wonderful way to avoid erosion. When you are near a ravine the key is to plant non-invasive native plants. Both the City of Toronto and the Toronto Region Conservation Authorities (TRCA) work together to help the public preserve the ecosystem of the ravines. Here is a very comprehensive article on the importance of ravine planting which you may find interesting: Ravines and Natural Features
As a ravine owner there are a couple of things you should know, the TRCA has put a document that will help you understand how erosion affects your garden: https://www.trca.on.ca/protect/erosion-management/
In terms of native perennials for your sandy, dry shade conditions, I am attaching a document from the City of Toronto listing the best suitable plants for each area: click here
I also wanted to make you aware of invasive plants that should NOT be planted in a ravine environment. To consult the Ontario Invasive Plant Council, click here.
I know I have given you quite a bit of ‘homework’ to read but conservation of ravine is key to the preservation of our ecosystem and you are one of the fortunate people who can contribute directly to save this precious asset.
Have fun planting!