September 18,1995
Canadian Forest Products Ltd.
Mainland Logging Division
| ABSTRACT - Hydroseeding is a seed application method where the
seed is mixed with water, mulch, fertilizer, and tackifier (soil binder)
in a mixing tank with mechanical agitation. Application is by pumping through
a nozzle designed for the distance and rate/area required. It is very effective
where quick surface cover is needed to prevent surface erosion and for surfaces
that are steep and/or weathered. It provides even distribution of seed and
fertilizer. The tackifier binds the mulch to the surface and prevents the
mulch from being washed away by rains, an important factor to successful
seeding on the coast. The amount and type of tackifier used is dependent
on steepness, surface texture, and duration/intensity of rainfall expected.
The mulch provides a favourable environment for uniform seed germination. |
Application Rates and Costs
Mulch
On average we apply 1400 kg/ha of ECOFIBRE + TAC at a cost of approximately
$650/ha. On severe sites the rate can be up to double the normal rate.
ECOFIBRE + TAC is a pre-mixed 100% virgin wood fibre mulch and a high performance
organic tackifier, 97% fibre and 3% tackifier by weight.
Seed
79 kg/ha of a coastal erosion control mix, $275/ha. We use a "shotgun" mix
containing 5 grasses and 3 legumes, each suited to a different range of Soil
nutrients and moisture. Seed mixes can be developed for specific areas. Fall
rye can be added to the mix for applications during the fall for quick
cover.
Fertilizer
205 kg/ha of 18 - 18 - 18 polymer coated urea with 50% ESN at a cost of $125/ha.
Fertilizer is very important for successful establishment as many disturbed
forest soils have low fertility. Total cost of materials is approximately
$1050/ha. Application costs can vary widely as they depend on factors such
as location and size of project, distance to water source, severity of site
conditions, size of hydroseeder and access to site.
Timing of Seeding
Spring is the best time, when temperatures are warm enough for germination
(7°C) and danger of frost is past. Our season usually lasts to the middle
of June. After the middle of June we run the risk of drought. The key is
to have the vegetation well established before a prolonged dry period. The
surface you are seeding should be moist otherwise the seed may germinate
and the roots grow across the surface instead of into it. For later applications
site conditions are very important. There is often a short Fall window, the
key here is to get good establishment before a killing frost.
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