Hydroseeding has recently become one of the most innovative contributions to the prevention of growing soil erosion occurring in Alabama.
Multitudes of construction companies, government agencies, local companies, farmers, or even families are beginning to use hydroseeding on land to slow soil erosion throughout Alabama.
What is Hydroseeding?
Put simply, hydroseeding is an inexpensive, high quality, and efficient way of seeding grass. It doesn’t only create pretty looking turf, but establishes strong protection against erosion.
Hydroseeding protects through strong root systems and protective grass that stops harsh weather from carrying soil away.
The Hydroseeding “Slurry”
Hydroseeding is an innovative erosion control method which starts with what is called a “slurry”.
The hydroseeding slurry contains seed, mulch, fertilizer, soil amendments, and water. These materials are all combined to form incredibly effective seed coverage and easy germination.
When this is shot out of a hydroseeding tank onto an exposed area of soil, the slurry instantly gets to work.
Common Uses of Hydroseeding:
Erosion control
Beautifying yards
Eliminating dust
Preventing weeds
How Hydroseeding Helps Control Erosion
Once applied, these seeds form roots that can extend up to 12 inches in the earth, creating a network of wall-like root systems under the surface of soil.
These root systems work like an underground fence, strengthening the soil and protecting it from harsh erosion.
Hydroseeding wouldn’t be able to have such an incredible effect without one key competent found in the slurry: mulch.

The Role of Mulch in Hydroseeding
Because mulch protects planted seeds from outside elements, and provides a more ideal environment in which to grow, it is one of the most important parts of the slurry.
Once it lands on the soil, the mulch creates a blanket over the slurry of seeds, which keeps it safe from the elements and holds it in place. As it remains the 4th rainiest state in 2021, Alabama needs this protection more than ever to prevent critical erosion.
Grass Above ground protects soil below ground
Grasses stop the powerful effect rain has on open soil. While roots provide a barrier underground, grasses do the same above.
After hydroseeding is applied seeds usually begin to sprout within a week, but depending on the mixture used it could be another week before considerable grass growth occurs.
Water run-off is a major cause of erosion and flooding, ultimately destroying soil. Grass creates a sort-of cushion to the destruction erosion causes.
Strong winds, heavy water, and the human footprint all play major roles in erosion, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be stopped.
Thanks to the extensive root systems of grass and its protective layers, healthy soil stays in place.
So Why Hydroseeding Over Other Options?
Hydroseeding protects soil while coming at an affordable cost. While sod and seed do have benefits, hydroseeding combines the best parts of both into a better product.
Sod is a major competitor to hydroseeding, but is more expensive to install and fails to protect erosion like hydroseeding does. Although it allows for the fastest installation option, the shallow roots require more maintenance, and fail to protect from weather.
The cheapest option is to buy grass seed and install. This method, although cheap, can take the most amount of time to grow (upwards of months).
Hydroseeding is the best of both worlds to these options. It is both affordable and efficient compared to other methods.
Hydroseeding Across Alabama
Hydroseeding is an incredible innovation to the landscaping scene across Alabama. With great cost and efficient distribution, it successfully protects from erosion.

For any seeding project, hydroseeding is the way to go. Contact Burns Environmental to get your FREE quote today!