Introduction

 

This treatment involves applying seed by hand or via belly grinder to vegetate small disturbed soil areas.

When to Use This Treatment

Use for disturbed areas less than 0.5 acres.

Benefits

• Low initial cost
• Efficient method for seed application in small areas (less than 0.5 acres)
• Vegetation provided by seed provides long-term erosion control
• Can be applied to areas with limited vehicular access

Limitations

• Not an effective treatment for areas larger than 0.5 acres
• Protection from erosion provided only after seed has germinated and plant growth has begun
• Surface treatment only - does not improve underlying soil structure, soil microbiology or restore soil nutrient reserves
• Applications to compacted, poorly draining soils may not provide conditions necessary for successful vegetative cover

Consider Using With

• Rolled Erosion Control Product (Netting)
• Local Topsoil
• Incorporate Materials
• Compost

Estimate Information

• Use BEES code 210212, Dry Seed (SQFT)
• Use BEES code 210213, Dry Seed (ACRE)

References

• "Roadside Revegetation, An Integrated Approach to Establishing Native Plants"
  • 3.6.1 Vegetation Field Assessment
  • 5.3 Obtaining Plant Material
  • 5.4 Installing Plant Materials
  • 5.4.1 Seeding
• H. Dana Bowers, et al. 1947. Erosion Control on California State Highways (PDF).
• California Department of Transportation,"Roadside Erosion Control and Management Studies", May 2008.
• California Department of Transportation, "Effective Planting Techniques to Minimize Erosion", January 2004.

 

Updated: January 14, 2019