How vegetation can help to stop soil erosion:
Vines are useful in preventing or stopping land erosion. They are good
for this purpose for many reasons. Below the surface, their roots grow
together and assist in binding the soil, making it more difficult for
forces that cause erosion, such a wind or rain, to break the soil apart.
Above the surface, the tendrils grow together, with other plants and
objects to form an interwoven mat of vegetation that protects the soil,
buffering it from direct impact with rain or wind.
Although many plants will also help to stop erosion, the vine offers
some advantages that other plants lack. Primarily vines are good at
protecting slopes because they grow both vertically and horizontally.
Furthermore, most species are invasive; they will grow until they
completely fill the area. This makes them useful in large scale
projects.
Things to consider:
Take precautions when planting near gardens, trees or buildings as some
species have been known to damage structures and overwhelm other flora.
Before purchasing a vine, it is best to consult a local or Online Nursery as some species are prohibited in certain states.
English Ivy will grow on slopes, gardens, trees and buildings and can
reach a height of ninety feet. It is a flowering vine producing greenish
yellow flowers from late summer to late autumn. Be aware the berries of
the English Ivy are poisonous to humans.
The Vinca Minor, or dwarf Periwinckle will grow to cover the ground, but
only climbs vertically to height of sixteen inches. The Vinca Minor
produces light purple flowers from early spring to midsummer. This is a
hardy, disease resistant, and pesticide resistant vine.
Finding The Right Type Vine:
Many local nurseries have vines for sale that are both adapted for your
region and not restricted by state laws due to their invasiveness. An
Online Nursery will often have large selections of vines for sale. Keep
in mind that not every variety of vine may be available at all times of
the year. Furthermore there may be state restriction as to which species
may be imported. For details and information, I find that a local
nursery can help in making your decision concerning which vine would be
best for you.
Vines For Sale