Soil erosion is a common problem that many people who own land face. It can be caused by both natural events and human or animal activity. Fortunately, there are a few ways to prevent this from happening.
Preventing soil erosion
Preventing soil erosion is a crucial part of keeping soil healthy and stable. Otherwise, there’s an increased risk of loss to crops and viable land. It can also cause an increase in airborne and water pollution.
Install straw wattles
One of the most effective ways to prevent soil erosion is by installing straw wattles. Straw wattles are long, flexible tubes filled with organic material such as wood shavings. They can help to stop soil and water runoff by creating a physical barrier or perimeter.
The straw wattles don’t just help keep soil in place. They also keep water where it belongs and send the moisture down to the roots of plants and crops. This action will help protect the water supply and keep plant life healthy.
Add mulch
Mulch is a covering for your yard or garden that serves many purposes. It can be made up of organic material like wood chips, straw, or pine. Not only will it help keep the soil in place, but it also helps plants retain moisture and stay warm through the cold months. It also makes a garden appear groomed and kept.
Adding mulch is easy, and every landowner should do it for delicate areas like flower beds. Spreading a layer of mulch is an easy and cost-effective way to keep plants healthy.
Plant cover
Plants are also a great way to help keep soil in place. The roots of ground coverage create a supportive network that soil can hold onto. They also prevent wind and rain from washing away the surface soils and help return much-needed nutrients to the ground.
Many different plants can help protect your land from erosion. Low, dense ground coverage, like grass and shrubs, will provide the best results. Water and wind won’t be able to reach the top layers as easily.
Redirecting runoff
Water is an effective form of erosion, and sometimes one of the best ways to prevent it is by directing it on a different path. A shallow trench or dry stream can help direct water around vital areas like plants and crops.
It is also possible to collect runoff and add it back to the soil. Collecting the water helps return the nutrients to the land and reduces water usage.
Understanding soil erosion
Soil erosion can happen for several reasons. Knowing why it happens can help you take the necessary steps to prevent it on your land.
Wind
Wind can carry solid particles away from their original resting spot. This erosion is particularly prevalent in places with little coverage, such as trees or buildings, to break the wind. Open fields, high altitudes, and dry landscapes are the most likely environments to see this type of erosion.
Water
Another way that soil is eroded is by water. This type of erosion can happen when there is a lot of rain or if the water system is inefficient. Water erosion can cause water to flow away from the roots of crops and gardens, denying them much-needed moisture.
Grazing
Animals are also another source of erosion. When left to graze, they pull ground coverage like grass out by the roots. This type of erosion is caused by overgrazing. Their grazing eventually leaves the ground bare and at greater risk for decline by wind and water. There is also less organic material to replenish the nutrients in the soil.
Land clearing
Humans also cause a great deal of soil erosion by engaging in activities that clear the land of its natural vegetation. These activities can include deforestation for agriculture or construction. Once the plants are removed, the soil may no longer have adequate coverage to protect itself.
Final thoughts
Preventing erosion is critical for keeping the soil healthy and your property in optimal health. Neglecting the soil will result in poor yields, whether that is for crops, lawns, or flower beds. Deep, nutritious soil is essential for a thriving property and landscape.