Do erosion control plants need special soil preparation?
Written by
Paul Reynolds
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Good soil preparation provides the conditions needed for erosion control plants to develop solid roots. Without proper preparation, the plants cannot attach to the soil sufficiently. Methods of preparing the soil vary depending on the land's slope and the type of soil present. This is one of the important factors that determine the ultimate success of any erosion control project. Work in this area will yield significant benefits, making the landscape stable for years to come.
Slope-Specific Methods
- Terracing: Build planting pockets every 4-6 feet on inclines
- Contour trenches: Dig shallow channels along elevation lines
- Erosion blankets: Secure biodegradable mats before planting
Soil Amendment Strategies
- Clay soils: Mix 50% sand for drainage improvement
- Sandy soils: Add compost for water retention
- Compacted soils: Aerate without tilling to preserve structure
For optimal results, carry out soil texture tests using simple jar tests first. Clear away all accumulated debris as needed, but leave standing vegetation alone where possible. Amend soil according to test results without any tilling. Correctly shape the site's slopes using terracing practices. Distribute the amendments uniformly across all planting zones for uniform growth conditions.
Mulching provides essential post-planting protection. Immediately after planting, apply three to four inches of organic mulch. Use straw on the slopes, securing it with jute netting, and wood chips on the flat areas. Gravel may be effectively used in drainage paths. The mulch should be replaced annually to ensure moisture retention and weed protection.
Native plants require different approaches to reach their potential. Use compost made from local materials that help promote the native soil microbiology. Avoid synthetic fertilizers that upset the natural nutrient cycles. Space the plants based on their mature size, rather than their current size. Water the plants deeply but infrequently to encourage a deep root system. These techniques duplicate the natural pattern of establishment of native plants.
Proper preparation reduces long-term maintenance significantly. Well-prepared sites establish 50% more quickly. Plants develop better roots to fight erosion. Self-sustaining landscapes are created needing little, if any, intervention. Your initial effort pays dividends in erosion protection over the years.
Read the full article: 10 Best Erosion Control Plants for Your Landscape
