Different Post-Seeding Options To Consider

Hay: Hay is primarily made from grasses such as timothy, alfalfa, or clover. It is harvested when the plants are still green and full of nutrients, then dried to reduce moisture content before being baled. It's used primarily as animal fodder. Hay should not be used in the landscape due to its composition and potentially containing weed seeds that can interfere with the desired result of your lawn.

Straw: Straw is mainly composed of dried stalks of cereal grains such as wheat, barley, oats, or rice. After the grains are harvested, the leftover stalks are baled into straw. It contains fewer nutrients compared to hay and is mainly used for bedding, mulching, or protecting grass seed once applied to the ground. Hay helps retain moisture in the seed, suppress erosion, and hide the seed from animals who can potentially eat it. Straw is a “clean” product, compared to hay, that is often used to promote grass germination.

Straw Matting: Straw matting is typically made from natural straw fibers, often derived from cereal grains such as wheat, barley, oats, or rice. These fibers are woven or mechanically bonded together to form a mat-like structure. The primary purpose of straw matting is erosion control. When installed on bare soil surfaces, it helps prevent soil erosion caused by rainfall, runoff, wind, or foot traffic and promote grass seed germination. By providing a protective barrier, straw matting reduces soil loss and sedimentation, helping to maintain soil integrity and fertility. Over time, the straw fibers break down naturally, adding organic matter to the soil and enriching its fertility. This makes straw matting an environmentally friendly erosion control solution, especially in sensitive ecosystems or restoration projects.

Erosion Control Matting: Erosion control matting, also known as erosion control blankets or mats, is made from various materials such as organic fibers (e.g., coconut, jute) or synthetic materials (e.g., polypropylene). These mats are designed to provide immediate and long-term erosion protection and stabilization to slopes, channels, or disturbed soil surfaces. Erosion control matting is specifically designed for long-term erosion control and stabilization. These mats are installed directly onto slopes or disturbed soil surfaces to prevent soil erosion by effectively anchoring the soil in place. They provide immediate protection against rainfall, runoff, and wind, while also promoting vegetation establishment and root development through the matting structure.