When protecting slopes, banks, and new lawns, choosing the right erosion control blanket helps establish grass quickly while reducing soil loss. This guide highlights top options featuring biodegradable fibers, jute and excelsior nets, and photodegradable top layers. Each selection balances soil protection, seed retention, and environmental impact. Below is a quick snapshot of the best picks to consider, followed by in-depth product sections and a practical buying guide.
| Product | Brand | Type | Approx. Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Excelsior QuickGrass Pro | Farm Plastic Supply | Biodegradable Erosion Control Blanket | 4′ x 112.5′ |
| Straw Coconut Erosion Blanket | Farm Plastic Supply | Straw/Coconut Fiber Blanket | 8′ x 112.5′ |
| Jute Erosion Control Blanket | AK TRADING CO. | Jute Net Erosion Blanket | 48″ x 20 yards |
| QuickGRASS Pro – Green Net | American Excelsior Company | Biodegradable Jute Net Blanket | 4′ x 50′ |
| Photodegradable Erosion Blanket | Dewitt | Ground Netting with Excelsior | 4′ x 112.5′ |
Note: Each product emphasizes soil protection, seed retention, and environmental considerations. The following sections provide concise overviews, practical usage notes, and the key features that influence performance on American landscapes.
Farm Plastic Supply American Excelsior QuickGrass Pro
Biodegradable fibers cling to soil to help hold seed in place, supporting germination and stabilization. It uses a single durable, all-natural jute net and is designed for erosion control in landscaping and various construction settings. Manufactured in the USA since 1888, it represents a long-standing option for durable grass establishment on slopes and disturbed ground.
Key features: 100% Biodegradable top layer with photo-degradable netting; excelsior-based fiber matrix with built-in swell; versatile application across residential to commercial sites. This blanket aims to protect topsoil from wind and water erosion while promoting an ideal seedbed for grass.
Farm Plastic Straw/Coconut Erosion Blanket
This biodegradable blanket blends 70% straw with 30% coconut fiber, bound by a biodegradable brown net. The combination provides temporary erosion control while allowing natural degradation over time. It is particularly suited for landscapes needing a quick, seed-friendly cover that will break down as vegetation becomes established.
Key features: 100% biodegradable materials; a straw-dominant composition for rapid cover; netting designed to biodegrade after approximately 90 days. Effective for temporary stabilization where long-term netting is not required.
Jute Erosion Control Blanket
Premium jute construction delivers natural erosion control with biodegradable properties. The 48-inch wide roll covers approximately 240 square feet, offering substantial protection for soil against wind and water. Jute supports soil health and biodegrades as vegetation takes root, reducing long-term maintenance needs.
Key features: Natural, biodegradable jute material; wide roll for extensive coverage; eco-friendly solution for sustainable landscapes and rehabilitation projects.
QuickGRASS Pro – Green Net Blanket
Biodegradable fibers cling to soil to help hold seed in place, supporting germination and stabilization. The product includes a single durable, all-natural biodegradable jute net and is a legacy option from a company with a long history in erosion control solutions.
Key features: 100% biodegradable fibers; single jute net for seed retention; American-made heritage; suitable for landscaping and slope stabilization projects requiring reliable, natural erosion control.
Farm Plastic Supply Straw Erosion Control Blanket
This blanket focuses on soil erosion prevention by retaining moisture and providing seed-friendly conditions. It uses mechanically stitch-bonded agricultural wheat straw to withstand environmental conditions over time while supporting germination and plant growth.
Key features: Moisture retention to enhance germination; structural strength from stitched straw fibers; practical for slopes, temporary cover, and seed protection across varying climates.
Riakrum Burlap Erosion Blanket
Two-bundle burlap erosion blankets offer practical stabilization for hillsides and shoreline protection. The rolls measure 48 inches in width and 60 feet in total length, providing a balance of ease of use and coverage for moderate erosion control tasks.
Key features: Burlap-based coverage; suitable for aquatic edge and hillside stabilization; simple handling and storage for ongoing projects.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Erosion Control Blankets
Choosing the right erosion control blanket depends on site conditions, project duration, and environmental goals. Consider the following factors to compare options effectively.
- Material and Degradation: Biodegradable fibers (straw, coconut, jute, excelsior) minimize residue and reduce cleanup later. Photodegradable top layers can aid visibility but may influence longevity.
- Soil Type and Slope: Heavier blankets with robust netting suit steeper slopes and unstable soils, while lighter blends work well on gentler grades.
- Seed Compatibility: Some blankets are seed-free or seed-friendly; ensure compatibility with the grass mix you intend to establish.
- Moisture Retention: Blankets that retain moisture support germination and early growth, especially in dry or windy climates.
- Durability and Timeframe: Temporary blankets may suffice for short-term stabilization, whereas long-term products offer extended protection in high-flow areas.
- Environmental Impact: Local regulations may favor locally produced products or specific biodegradable compositions. Consider end-of-life disposal or natural degradation.
- Installation and Coverage: Widths and lengths affect how quickly you cover a site. Larger rolls reduce labor on expansive areas, while smaller rolls offer flexibility on irregular terrain.
- Soil Impact and Rooting: Some options promote stronger root establishment by promoting seed-to-soil contact and reducing erosion during rainfall events.
In practice, evaluate project duration, climate, slope, and desired ecosystem outcomes. For rapid stabilization with seed establishment, products combining excelsior or jute nets with biodegradable fibers tend to deliver reliable performance. For temporary stabilization on moderate slopes, straw-based or burlap blankets can be cost-effective and easier to remove after vegetation is established.