What maintenance do erosion control plants require?

Written by

picture of Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.

Reviewed by

Published: November 18, 2025

Updated: November 18, 2025

Once established, erosion control plants require surprisingly little attention. Their native adaptations enable them to thrive with little to no intervention. Native species, especially those with well-established root systems, require little care. They perform best when the maintenance and any rest period follow their natural growth habit, rather than employing costly methods of extreme care. They may be made into self-sustaining soil protectors through proper early care.

Watering Strategy

First year: Water deeply weekly during dry spells
Established plants: Only during extreme drought
Method: Soak roots instead of light sprinkling

Pruning Approach

Timing: Late winter before spring growth
Goal: Maintain density without over-thinning
Technique: Selective cutting above nodes

Maintenance Schedule by Plant Type
Plant Category	Watering Needs	Pruning Frequency	Weed Control
Groundcovers	First summer only	Annual trimming	Critical first 6 months
Shrubs	First 2 seasons	Biannual shaping	First year priority
Deep-rooted Perennials	First year only	Minimal pruning	Establishment phase

Native species require less maintenance than non-natives

Maintenance Schedule by Plant Type

Plant CategoryGroundcoversWatering NeedsFirst summer onlyPruning FrequencyAnnual trimmingWeed Control

Critical first 6 months

Plant CategoryShrubsWatering NeedsFirst 2 seasonsPruning FrequencyBiannual shapingWeed Control

First year priority

Plant CategoryDeep-rooted PerennialsWatering NeedsFirst year onlyPruning FrequencyMinimal pruningWeed Control

Establishment phase

Native species require less maintenance than non-natives

There are considerable differences in watering practices by growth period. Young plantings require consistent moisture to develop their root systems. Water deeply once a week during the first summer. Well-established natives seldom need watering except during severe drought periods. Always water the root zone early in the morning to minimize evaporation.

Pruning maintains plant health and the usefulness of erosion control. Groundcovers should be pruned annually to encourage dense growth. Grasses are to be cut back in the spring (early spring) before new growth begins to appear. Shrubs should be pruned for shape and vigor, taking care to maintain their natural appearance. Do not prune more than one-third of the growth at one time. Proper pruning is done with consideration of disease entry.

Weed management is critical during the establishment period. Remove weeds that are competing for nutrients with your young plants during the first year. An organic mulch of 3-4 inches will naturally suppress weeds. After the erosion-controlling plants spread, they will themselves outcompete the weeds. Avoid chemical herbicides that harm beneficial soil organisms.

Regular monitoring catches issues before they start. After a severe storm, inspect plants for root exposure and check the mulch level before winter begins to add more as needed. Be on the lookout for pests as spring growth begins to emerge. Replace immediately any plants that have failed. It is essential to have constant coverage. This method of slope protection will be a permanent thing.

Read the full article: 10 Best Erosion Control Plants for Your Landscape

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