What Kind of Vegetation Helps With Erosion Control?

From junipers and grass to bushes and shrubs, there are a number of different types of vegetation you can use to supplement terraces, retaining walls, and other outdoor features that can add aesthetic to your home while providing stable soil conditions. Erosion is a serious concern for properties on hills and areas that get heavy rainfall--while concrete can help seepage, a few plants can do the same thing while adding curb appeal.

Types of Plants Used for Erosion Control

Below are a few main categories of vegetation used for erosion control—either intentionally or not.

1. Grasses: Two of the most common grasses that help with water and soil runoff are tall fescue and bluegrass. Tall fescue is often used in erosion-prone areas because of its dense, deep root system, which helps soil stay in place during heavy rains and flooding. While it's not the best for pollinators, it is a durable plant mostly found in New England and along highways. It is extremely tolerant in various weather conditions (drought, snow, heat, etc.). Bluegrass—otherwise known as Kentucky Bluegrass—grows extremely well on slopes and in harsh environments. It is often grown as sod, which can require intense management to prevent pests and overgrazing.
2. Groundcover: Creeping Juniper is a fast-growing plant that forms a deep-rooted mat in the right conditions. Known for its hardiness, it thrives over poor or dry soil. Another great option is Clover, which helps with pollination, nitrogen fixing, and stabilizing loose soil without requiring too much sunlight or moisture.
3. Shrubs and Bushes: Buffalo Berries are known for their small, scarlet or golden fruit and deep roots that help stabilize the soil in erosion-prone areas. They can survive in a variety of soil conditions and provide habitat for wildlife. The Dwarf Willow is another shrub that stabilizes soil along water sources with its vast, fast-growing root system.
4. Trees: The best trees for stabilizing soil include Willows and Pines. While trees can have long roots that may disrupt sidewalks or retaining walls, their deep roots help retain water, improve soil structure, and enhance landscape aesthetics.
5. Perennials: Purple Coneflowers are drought-tolerant and known for their erosion control benefits. They are also attractive to pollinators. Another perennial, the Black-eyed Susan, grows massive root systems with minimal intervention, making it an excellent option for stabilizing soil.

These plants are commonly used in erosion-prone areas because they offer long-term stability while improving the landscape. Their deep root systems bind the soil, reducing the risk of runoff and soil degradation. Additionally, many of these plants, such as clover and creeping juniper, can enhance biodiversity by providing habitat for wildlife and supporting pollinators.

Why is Erosion Control Important?

Erosion control plays a crucial role in protecting your property and the surrounding environment. Here are some key reasons why:

• Prevents Property Damage: Erosion can wash away soil, compromising the structural integrity of foundations, driveways, and retaining walls. It can also damage garden areas and hardscapes, leading to costly repairs.
• Protects the Environment: When soil erodes, it can carry pollutants like fertilizers and pesticides into nearby water sources, harming aquatic life and potentially impacting human health.
• Preserves Plant Life: Erosion removes the topsoil that plants need to thrive. Erosion control helps stabilize the soil, ensuring healthy vegetation growth with proper drainage and strategic landscaping.
• Improves Safety: Erosion-prone areas can pose safety risks, such as landslides and uneven ground. Addressing these issues protects homeowners, visitors, and infrastructure like roads and ditches, enhancing overall safety.
• Enhances Aesthetic Value: By preventing soil displacement and protecting your landscape, erosion control maintains and even enhances the visual appeal of your property. Proper landscaping reduces maintenance costs and increases property value.

Implementing erosion control measures, such as retaining walls, proper drainage, and suitable vegetation, is essential for safeguarding your property’s structural integrity and ensuring a healthy environment. Especially in areas like St. Louis, where heavy rainfall is common, proactive steps to prevent erosion can save you significant time, effort, and costs in the long run.

Your St. Louis, MO, Landscaping & Erosion Control Experts

Reach out to our team online or call one of our crew at 636-256-2600 today to learn more about our services and erosion control in the Great St. Louis, MO, area.