Hydro seeding is an economical and efficient way to seed large exposed areas using water as a carrier. A fiber mulch of wood or straw is added to ensure uniform mixing which has a number of other benefits once the solution hits the ground.
- Moisture retention and higher germination rates
- Reduced seed removal by birds
- Prevents wind erosion and loss of seed
- Erosion protection from rain splash
- Less soil crusting
Where to use it
Hydroseeding can be done on very small areas that are difficult to access or on large bare construction zones adjacent to roadwork or transmission lines. It can be done on slopes up to 3:1 and non flowing drainage areas. For steeper slopes a Bonded Fibre Matrix is added to the hydroseeding solution to bind and stabilize soil. Erosion control blankets are placed first where there is the potential for flowing water such as ditches and drains
How it’s done
Based on the size of the job MCH will use one of its many hydroseeders to spread the seed and mulch solution using a high pressure sprayer. The seed mix and mulch selection is specific to the terrain, climate zone, and erosion control needs. MCH will either use a client’s specification provided for a project or recommend mixes to individual clients.
To obtain a basic level of erosion control, chopped straw can be applied to exposed soil much like is done on many agricultural fields to prevent water and wind erosion. The straw effectively protects the soil from raindrop impact and allows quick germination and revegetation. The chopped straw mulch may be placed by hand or blown on by machine. The straw is then held in place by mechanical crimping or tacking by spraying guar glue on to the straw with a hydroseeder.