Introduction
Erosion control using straw-based blankets and wattles offers a natural, easy-to-install option for protecting soil and promoting vegetation during site stabilization. The selection below highlights five highly relevant products from Farm Plastic Supply and AK TRADING CO. that emphasize biodegradability, longevity, and effective sediment control. This guide compares material composition, durability, reuse potential, and installation considerations to help you choose the right solution for your project.
Product Overview
| Product | Material Emphasis | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Farm Plastic Supply 100% Biodegradable Erosion Control Blanket – Straw/Coconut Straw (8′ x 112.5′) | 70% straw, 30% coconut fiber; 100% biodegradable | Temporary rolled erosion control for slopes and disturbed soils |
| Farm Plastic Supply – Straw Wattle (9″ x 12′) | Straw fiber wattle; durable, reusable | Channel and slope stabilization; sediment filtration |
| Farm Plastic Supply – Straw Wattle (9″ x 25′) | Straw fiber wattle; durable, reusable | Higher capacity stabilization and longer-term projects |
| Farm Plastic Supply – Straw Wattle (9″ x 8′) | Straw fiber wattle; durable, reusable | Compact stabilization in tight spaces or perimeter controls |
| Farm Plastic Supply American Excelsior QuickGrass Pro | Excelsior topography with biodegradable netting | Topsoil protection, seedbed preparation, broad erosion control |
Product 1: Farm Plastic Supply 100% Biodegradable Erosion Control Blanket – Straw/Coconut Straw (8′ x 112.5′)
The blanket blends 70% agricultural wheat straw with 30% coconut fiber and uses a biodegradable brown poly net. It is designed as a temporary rolled erosion control product and is fully biodegradable after use. The 8-foot width provides broad coverage for slope areas and disturbed soils, supporting sediment capture and gradual stabilization as vegetation establishes. This product’s composition aims to balance erosion reduction with environmental friendliness, making it suitable for projects prioritizing natural materials and soil protection.
Key Features
- Biodegradable materials: straw, coconut fibers, and netting.
- Temporary rolled blanket for erosion control.
- 70% straw and 30% coconut fiber composition.
Product 2: Farm Plastic Supply – Straw Wattle (9″ x 12′)
Straw wattles are designed to reduce erosion by slowing water velocity and filtering sediment. This 9″ x 12″ wattle provides a compact, versatile option suitable for perimeter controls and slope stabilization. The product emphasizes durability and reusability, with a stated longevity of 4-6 years under proper conditions. It supports temporary erosion protection while vegetation establishes and can be repositioned if needed.
Key Features
- 2-year baseline erosion prevention; 4-6 years usable life.
- Effective for channel stabilization and sediment filtration.
- Reusability supports long-term site management.
Product 3: Farm Plastic Supply – Straw Wattle (9″ x 25′)
This straw wattle offers increased length for enhanced erosion control along longer slope runs or wider channels. Like other wattles in the Farm Plastic Supply line, it emphasizes durability with a multi-year usefulness and is intended to slow runoff, promote filtration, and reduce sediment entry into stormwater systems. The extended length makes it a practical choice for more extensive stabilization projects or perimeter control around larger developments.
Key Features
- Extended length for broader coverage.
- Durable, reusable design compatible with multiple seasons.
- Supports sediment filtration and runoff deceleration.
Product 4: Farm Plastic Supply – Straw Wattle (9″ x 8′)
This compact straw wattle is designed for tight spaces and perimeter control where larger wattles may not fit. It shares the same foundational erosion control benefits as its larger counterparts—slowing water flow, filtering sediment, and protecting soil while vegetation becomes established. Its smaller footprint makes it a flexible option for projects with limited space or specific stabilization needs.
Key Features
- Small footprint for tight spaces.
- Durable and reusable with multi-season potential.
- Effective sediment filtration and runoff deceleration.
Product 5: Farm Plastic Supply American Excelsior QuickGrass Pro – Green Erosion Control Blanket
The QuickGrass Pro blanket uses excelsior netting to protect topsoil and support grass seed germination. The biodegradable or photo-degradable netting helps secure soil while maintaining a seed-friendly environment. This versatile product is widely used across landscaping, road construction, and drainage projects, offering broad applicability for various erosion control scenarios. The blanket’s design prioritizes soil protection, vegetation establishment, and reliable performance on multiple fronts.
Key Features
- Excelsior netting to safeguard topsoil and seedbed formation.
- Biodegradable top material supports natural decomposition.
- Versatile across multiple industries and applications.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right straw-based erosion control solution involves balancing materials, duration, and site needs. Consider these factors to compare options effectively:
- Material composition: Biodegradable straw blankets integrate natural fibers, while wattles rely on straw, coconut fiber, or jute blends. Biodegradability reduces removal needs but may limit long-term reuse.
- Durability and reuse: Wattles typically offer 4-6 years of use; blankets are often intended for shorter-term stabilization unless designed for reuse. Assess whether your project requires long-term protection or quick installation and removal.
- Coverage and size: Larger blankets provide rapid coverage on slopes; wattles vary in length and diameter, affecting placement density and sediment capture. Match size to site dimensions and runoff volume.
- Installation environment: Steep slopes, perimeter controls, and construction zones demand different configurations. Wattles excel in channels and perimeters, while blankets cover larger surface areas.
- Environmental impact: Biodegradable nets and natural fibers promote soil health and reduce waste. For sensitive landscapes, prioritize products with minimal chemical additives and non-toxic materials.
- Site goals and climate: Regions with heavy rainfall or strong runoff benefit from multi-layer approaches combining blankets and wattles, along with seeding and mulching for quick vegetation cover.
- Regulatory considerations: Local erosion control standards may influence material choices, netting requirements, and installation methods. Ensure compatibility with governing guidelines for your project.
- Maintenance and inspection: Regular site checks help verify that wattles remain in place and blankets stay intact, ensuring ongoing erosion control effectiveness during storms and seasonal changes.
Across these products, the emphasis remains on natural materials, biodegradable components, and practical performance. For projects prioritizing quick vegetation establishment, excelsior-based or coconut-blend blankets provide robust seedbed support. For long-lasting perimeter controls and channel stabilization, straw wattles of varying sizes enable flexible layouts. When in doubt, combine products to create a layered approach that protects soil, filters runoff, and promotes healthy revegetation while minimizing environmental impact.