Best Straw for Erosion Control: Biodegradable Blankets and Wattles for Erosion Prevention
Erosion control using straw-based blankets and wattles is a common approach for stabilizing soil, reducing runoff, and promoting vegetation establishment in construction, landscaping, and slope stabilization projects. This article reviews five relevant straw-based products from Farm Plastic Supply and a top alternative, highlighting material composition, longevity, and practical use cases. The goal is to provide objective guidance on selecting the right erosion control solution for temporary projects, perimeters, and permanent installations. The following table summarizes the chosen products to aid quick comparisons and decision-making.
| Product | Type | Size | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Farm Plastic Supply 100% Biodegradable Erosion Control Blanket – Straw/Coconut Straw (8′ x 112.5′) | Blanket | 8′ x 112.5′ | Biodegradable straw and coconut fiber blend; 70/30 mix; temporary erosion control |
| Farm Plastic Supply – Straw Wattle (9″ x 12′) | Wattle | 9″ x 12′ | 2-year erosion prevention; reusable for 4–6 years; perimeter and slope protection |
| Farm Plastic Supply – Straw Wattle (9″ x 25′) | Wattle | 9″ x 25′ | Longer length for larger channels; durable for multi-year use |
| Farm Plastic Supply – Straw Wattle (9″ x 8′) | Wattle | 9″ x 8′ | Compact option for tight spaces; versatile for small features |
| Farm Plastic Supply American Excelsior QuickGrass Pro (8′ x 112.5′) | Blanket | 8′ x 112.5′ | Biodegradable top netting; excelsior fiber matrix for seed protection |
Farm Plastic Supply 100% Biodegradable Erosion Control Blanket — 8′ x 112.5′
The 8′ x 112.5′ blanket combines 70% straw and 30% coconut fiber within a biodegradable brown poly net. This composition supports temporary erosion control while promoting vegetative establishment. The material and netting are 100% biodegradable, with the net designed to biodegrade after about 90 days. Its size and composition make it suitable for larger linear applications or slopes requiring rapid stabilization. The product ships in a 7.5′ width for easier handling during installation.
Farm Plastic Supply Straw Wattle — 9″ x 12′
Straw wattles serve as a practical solution for controlling sheet erosion, rills, and gullies along channels and slopes. This 9″ x 12″ wattles product is designed for temporary erosion protection, with a functional longevity of 4–6 years if left in place and can be reused across multiple projects. They help slow water velocity, trap sediment, and filter runoff before it reaches stormwater inlets. Ideal for perimeter controls around lots and construction sites, they are a versatile option for smaller-scale projects and quick deployments.
Farm Plastic Supply Straw Wattle — 9″ x 25′
This 9″ x 25″ straw wattle offers a longer, more robust option for larger-scale erosion control along slopes or channels. Like the 9×12 version, it provides 2 years of erosion prevention by reducing runoff velocity and capturing sediment. The wattles are durable, reusable, and suitable for projects where extended exposure to weather is anticipated. Their versatility makes them appropriate for perimeter controls on commercial and residential sites.
Farm Plastic Supply Straw Wattle — 9″ x 8′
The 9″ x 8″ straw wattle provides a compact option for projects with limited space or complex contours. This size supports erosion control in tight corridors, around drainage features, or to reinforce smaller sections of slopes. It shares the same longevity and sediment-filtering benefits as larger wattles, making it a flexible tool for diverse site conditions and budget-conscious installations.
Farm Plastic Supply American Excelsior QuickGrass Pro — 8′ x 112.5′
The QuickGrass Pro blanket features a top-of-blanket excelsior netting designed to safeguard topsoil during establishment. The material forms a robust fiber matrix that supports seed germination and soil stabilization. The biodegradable top netting, combined with an excelsior base, provides a versatile option for road, landscaping, and residential projects where seed establishment is a priority. The product is designed to be seed-free and free of chemical additives, supporting a clean installation for vegetative growth.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Erosion Control With Straw-Based Solutions
When selecting straw-based erosion control products, consider material composition, longevity, application area, and environmental impact. Biodegradable blankets that blend straw with coconut fiber and a biodegradable netting offer temporary stabilization while supporting natural vegetation. Wattles provide flexible, modular erosion control along slopes, channels, and perimeters, with variations in length and diameter to fit different site conditions. Excelsior-based options introduce additional seed protection and soil stabilization benefits.
- Project duration and condition: For short-term projects, 2–3 month degradation timelines may suffice, whereas longer projects benefit from wattles with multi-year reuse potential.
- Soil and climate suitability: Straw and coconut fiber blends perform well in temperate climates but consider local moisture and degradation rates in hot, dry environments.
- Slope and runoff characteristics: Steep slopes and high runoff areas may require longer wattles or larger blankets to maximize sediment capture and erosion control.
- Reusability and cost: Wattles with 4–6 years of use offer long-term value; blankets are typically single-season solutions unless designed for extended use.
- Environmental impact: Biodegradable netting and natural fibers minimize post-project residue and align with sustainable practices.
- Maintenance needs: Inspect blankets and wattles after heavy rainfall; replace damaged sections promptly to maintain effectiveness.
Comparison At A Glance
For larger linear applications and slope stabilization, blends like 70% straw and 30% coconut fiber in blankets provide robust temporary erosion control. Wattles excel in perimeter controls, drainage channels, and site boundaries, with size options to fit various layouts. Excelsior-based blankets emphasize seed protection and long-term soil stabilization through intact netting and fiber matrices. Choose a combination of blankets for surface stabilization and wattles for contour protection to achieve comprehensive erosion control on most projects.