Biotic soil amendment and vegetating a lime stabilised clay slope - Enhancing Stability and Growth - Case Study By GeoGrow.
Client: David Wilson Group
Contractor: GeoGrow
Completed: November 2023
Project Overview:
- Location: Telford
Project Challenges and Requirements: The challenge our client was having in terms of vegetation on site, was due to the process of the lime stabilisation, this had made the soils devoid of organic matter which stopped vegetation. The end goal was to turn this bleak, unappealing landscape into a vibrant, environmentally friendly green space.
The Solution: For this project, we opted for the application of our Organix Biotic Soil Amendment to the lime
stabilised clay slope, as a superior alternative to our traditional Hydroseeding method, which would have struggled with sustaining vegetation in such conditions. We applied Organix BSA at the maximum recommended rate of 560 g/m², in conjunction with two natural slow-release fertilisers. This approach was designed to restore organic matter and nutrient levels in the soil, thereby enabling the slope to sustain long-term vegetation. Given the steep slope angle (60 degrees), we used our drought-tolerant grass mix to ensure robust vegetation. Additionally, we incorporated clover and legume species to facilitate nitrogen cycling. Following this, an EarthGuard Fiber Matrix layer was applied over the top to provide a temporary erosion control measure. This layer helped to secure the seed in place until it could establish, ensuring successful vegetation growth on the slope.
The Works: Due to the steep gradient of the slope, our Hydroseeding machine was ideally suited for this
application. Its design allowed our team to achieve an even distribution of seed across the entire slope. This capability was crucial in ensuring uniform coverage and promoting effective germination of the seeds. The total duration for completing the works on this project spanned over 2 days, during which we covered an area of 1200m². The team not only accomplished the task of restoring the poor, depleted soils, but also achieved successful vegetation of the area.
The Result: GeoGrow successfully vegetated the 60-degree slope, transforming what was once a dull, barren
lime stabilised clay slope into a sustainable green space. This initiative not only enhanced the aesthetics of the area but also contributed significantly to increasing Biodiversity and creating natural habitats. The careful selection of applications used enabled us to achieve lush vegetation on this challenging terrain. When revisiting site in April 2024, we found vegetation had established. During our most recent visit in June 2024, we extended the Hydroseeding to cover additional open areas on site and observed that the wall had further flourished.
Find Out More: If you wish to find out more about our Environmental Spray Services or the Rootlok Vegetated Wall System, please contact our sales office on 01543 224800.