Plants selected for the revegetation should mimic the native species composition in both type and strata. Within forested slopes and ravines, the planting design should mend the slide area with vegetation identified in the surrounding slopes to provide continuity in the habitat. The vegetation types and methods of slope plantings should vary according to the location of the slide within the landscape of the bluff, hillside or ravine. Integral to the slope revegation plan is the planting of the slope setback buffer. The slope setback is often the first zone of conflict between the need for slope stabilization and the desires of property owners.
Human use is a large contributor to most landslides in residential areas.
Home owners and businesses clear trees and debris to open and maintain views and often deposit cleared debris over the bank of the slope. Trails and stairs are cut into the steep banks for ready access to streams and beaches. Lawns and patios are built up to the edge of the bank, affecting the long-term stability of the slope. Because humans are the prime threat to stable slopes, revegetation plans must consider human use. Even the most viable plant community will be strained to accomodate beach access and view maintenance.