Effect of hydroseeding on grass yield and water use efficiency on forest road artificial soil slopes

Hydroseeding treatments are increasingly being used as a feasible alternative for soil erosion control after forest road construction. This study investigated the germination and biomass production of two hydroseed mixes and assessed the effectiveness of these treatments to reduce the water consumption of grass. Hydroseed mix 1 (water + seed + organic tackifier + starter fertilizer + superabsorbent) and hydroseed mix 2 (mentioned materials in mix 1 + biohumus + cellulose fibre mulch + natural yarn) were compared to a control (prevalent mix including seed + animal fertilizer) during the study period (30 days in July). Hydroseed mix 2 significantly favoured both seed germination parameters and grass biomass production. Hydroseed mix 2 significantly reduced the quantity of irrigation water via producing an absorbent layer. The results from this study could help managers to select and apply more appropriate hydroseeding treatments for slope stabilization of forest road embankments.