The easiest way to prevent erosion is to keep exposed soil to a minimum. Straw mulching is a relatively inexpensive way to stabilize soil for a short period of time until the areas become vegetated.
The straw provides protection and also a very suitable cover creating a optimum growth potential for the seed to germinate and grow resulting in a healthy and thick layer of vegetation to prevent erosion
In addition to controlling erosion and run-off, straw mulching can be used to reduce dust and soil loss. Straw Mulch is also an affective way to conserve moisture and is helpful to help grass grow and in the prevention of surface compaction and crusting.
Straw Mulch should be spread evenly. Common materials used for stabilization include straw and hay.
Any area left undisturbed for 14 days should be covered with mulch as a minimum. After 60 days, areas that have been stabilized with only mulch should be planted with grass and mulched again. All of the straw mulch will be tacked down using a Tackifier to prevent the wind and rain from moving the mulch.
Vegetation and grasses are used to stabilize areas that will be left undisturbed for more than 60 days, but are not yet on final grade.
Quick growing grasses such as ryegrass and fescues are commonly used to establish temporary vegetative cover. For temporary seeding, lime is not required; however, fertilizer should be applied in areas were soil fertility is low.
Temporary seed may be applied by hand, drill, or hydroseeder. Areas that have been temporarily seeded should be mulched at a depth not less than ¾ of an inch. |
