How to Stop Backyard Soil Erosion

Erosion is defined as the wearing away of topsoil due to water or wind. Large rain drops or heavy wind during storms can cause the soil to wash away. The topsoil enters and pollutes streams, rivers and lakes. With some or all of the topsoil gone, the area is less productive. Here are ideas to stop erosion in a backyard.

Instructions

1. Bare soil is subject to erosion. The slope of the backyard area, the climate conditions, the type of soil and other factors determine the amount of possible erosion. To prevent erosion, topsoil must be secured in some way.

2. A very common method of preventing erosion is to plant vegetation. Trees, lawn, vegetable gardens and flower beds all work to cover the soil. Trees work to secure the soil and also can serve as a wind break. A temporary method of using plants to prevent erosion is called green manure. Temporary plantings of annual grasses or small grains (such as oats and wheat)are made to cover bare soil. Later, when there is time to plant permanent vegetation, the temporary plants are tilled into the ground. The temporary plants add nutrients to the soil when tilled.

3. If vegetation is not practical or desired, the soil may be covered with mulch, crushed stone, wood chips or similar products. Be sure to direct water runoff during storms so mulch, stones or chips are not washed away. Garden supply centers sell types of "fabric" that can be used in conjunction with the stone or chips to secure soil. If the slope in the backyard is great, building terraces (stair steps) and covering with vegetation may be a solution for soil erosion.