Erosion Control Toolbox: Drill Seed

Introduction

Drill Seed is the sowing of seed in the soil using a drill seeding device as seen in the above photos.

When to Use This Treatment

Typically used in disturbed soil areas 3:1 (H:V) and flatter that are readily accessible by large equipment.

Benefits

• Sowing the seed directly in the soil leads to better germination and vegetative cover than hydroseed.
• Requires only one-half the seeding rate of Dry Seed or Hydroseed.

Limitations

• Not effective in applying fluffy seed (e.g., rabbit brush) due to static electricity.

Consider Using With

To prevent surface erosion after drilling seed, consider following this treatment with:

• Hydromulch - for fiber and tackifier application only
• Bonded Fiber Matrix
• Mulch
• Local Topsoil
• Incorporate Materials
• Compost

Standard Specifications

Estimate Information

• Use 210222 Drill Seed (SQYD) for payment by the square yard.
• Use 210223 Drill Seed (ACRE) for payment by the acre.

References

• David Steinfield, Scott Riley, Kim Wilkinson, Thomas D. Landis, Lee Riley, et. al. 2017 "Roadside Revegetation, An Integrated Approach to Establishing Native Plants and Pollinator Habitat"
  • 3.6.1 Vegetation Field Assessment
  • 5.3 Obtaining Plant Materials
  • 5.4 Installing Plant Materials
  • 5.4.1 Seeding

Updated: February 14, 2019