Some plants prefer more moisture, while others are better at tolerating drought. Moisture loving plants will do better in low spots or nearer the shoreline. Higher spots away from the water will need plants that prefer drier soils. Since many plants have soil pH preferences, testing the pH of your soil can help you make more informed plant selections. Cornell Cooperative Extension and many local nurseries sell soil test kits.
Some plants are better at controlling erosion on banks than others.
In the planting guide that follows look for plants that are good bank covers or consider using wattles made from cuttings of shrub willow or dogwood. Very steep slopes may require the use of engineered structures such as sea walls. Careful placement of different sized trees and shrubs can help enhance views that are valuable and can help screen less desirable views, such as neighboring buildings, docks, parking areas and utility right of ways. Instead of automatically removing the existing shrubs and trees on your property, consider pruning them. A certified arborist can help you prune your trees in a manner that improves the view while protecting the natural integrity of your property.