Ernst Conservation Seeds

Disturbed Sites and Steep Slopes

DISTURBED SITES & STEEP SLOPES have variable soil types and conditions.

Examples of DISTURBED SITES:

  • Landfills
  • Surface mines
  • Road cuts
  • Construction sites

Site Preparation

Eradicate existing vegetation by having a licensed spray technician apply an approved herbicide. Whenever possible, regrade the site to reduce slope which will, in turn, reduce erosion and minimize seed loss.

Habitat: Soil consists of various clay, sand, and rock outcropping without topsoil.

Fertility: These sites are generally low in fertility; therefore, adding topsoil or organic matter (compost) can be very beneficial. Check your soil pH and select species adapted to that pH. Add lime and fertilizer as recommended by soil analysis. Incorporate any amendments into the soil. All incorporating activities should be done in a manner that will leave the soil rough, which will minimize soil erosion and rapid run-off.

Seeding Method: Hand seed, broadcast, hydroseed, or drill seed. Once the seed has been broadcast, dragging with a light harrow to cover the seed (approx. 1/4”-1/2” deep), tracking, or mulching with straw, hydromulch, or straw/coconut fiber mats is recommended to protect the seed from drying out or washing away. With adequate temperature and moisture, the seed should begin to germinate within approximately three weeks.

First Year Maintenance

Observation of the desired species’ growth and weed competition is essential when making maintenance decisions. Minimum mowing (4”-6” high) to top off aggressive weeds is recommended to give desirable plants an opportunity to develop roots. Most of the competition the first year will be annual weeds. Mowing too close encourages weedy grass species.

Second Year Maintenance

Monitor and control undesirable vegetation with spot spraying or mowing. Mowing the entire area (4”-6” high) during the dormant season can enhance the appearance without jeopardizing wildlife habitat and erosion protection.

Special Considerations

Vegetation allowed to grow without mowing provides more protection for wildlife and aids in erosion control.