What’s the difference between Hydroseeding and Hydromulching?

HYDROMULCHING, HYDROSEEDINGWhether you’ve reached the end of a construction project or are preparing a highway slope rehabilitation plan, you’ve probably come across the terms ‘hydroseeding’ and ‘hydromulching’ as you research an effective revegetation strategy. Both methods are more economical than laying turf. Hydromulching can reach rough or otherwise inaccessible areas such as high slopes, and produce thicker, healthier vegetation that binds with the ground surface soil to effectively protect against erosion.But while these two terms are often used interchangeably, there are some core differences between the practical applications of hydroseeding and hydromulching:

Hydroseeding

Hydroseeding uses water as a carrier to spray seed and fertiliser onto the seedbed. The hydroseed distribute seed and fertiliser, especially for hard-to-reach areas where alternative seeding methods aren’t easily accomplished.

Hydromulching

Hydromulching is similar to hydroseeding, but it adds a fibre-mulch to the mixture of seed, fertiliser and water. The mulch acts as a cover for the seed, helping it retain moisture for faster germination and growth, while protecting the soil from erosion and prevent the seeds from washing away in the rain.

The hydromulching mix is applied and typically consists of a slurry of seed, fertiliser, water, nitrogen, biopolymer, biologically active soil conditioners, a non toxic green colour dye, and organic mulch fibres which will degrade over several months.