Coir matting is one of the most effective methods to fight against land erosion. Whether small or large-scale land projects, soil erosion can be costly and damaging. So, having a natural solution is essential, but where does coir matting come from and how is it made?
Coir is coconut fibre. It is a natural substance extracted from the husk of coconuts. Between the hard covering and the internal structure of the shell is this fibrous material that when harvested, can be used for all sorts of products.
Depending on the age and ripeness of the coconut, different styles of coir form. Brown coir, which we use for our matting, is harvested from ripe coconuts while white coir comes from unripe coconuts.
Since ancient times, coir has been used to make ropes and cords. Their waterproof nature allowed them to be used for ships, especially since it is one of the few fibres resistant to saltwater.
As time progressed, coir was shaped and adapted to be used for flooring, brushes, upholstery padding and sacks. Today, the fibre has found renewed purpose in environmental applications where its natural properties make it ideal for erosion control and revegetation projects.
Firstly, coconuts need to be harvested by either picking them from trees or simply finding them on the ground. The quality of the final product depends significantly on selecting coconuts at the right stage of maturity.
Coconut has an outer and inner part. To remove the husk, a spike is typically used to impale the coconut which separates the outer shell with the husk.
Skilled huskers can get through about 200 per day, which matches most modern machines. This traditional method remains popular in many coconut-producing regions because it requires no electricity and creates local employment.
The husks are then left in wet environments that encourage microbial growth. This stage is called retting.
The microbes allow some decomposition to occur which helps the fibres separate. It can take months for the process to fully finish, typically between six to twelve months depending on conditions.
Next, the retted pulp is beaten to separate the fibres from any outer skin. After rinsing, the fibres are left out to dry.
Once dry, they are ready to be rolled and shaped into various products such as matting, nets, ropes and logs. The fibres are sorted by length and quality, with longer fibres typically used for weaving matting while shorter fibres might be compressed into logs.
Our coir matting is made from strands of fibres weaved with interlocking patterns. This style is suitable for land care as it allows moisture and air to circulate while still promoting plant growth.
It is also super strong and durable. The weaving process can be done by hand or machine, with different densities available depending on the intended application.
The heavy-duty 900gsm roll provides maximum durability for high-traffic areas and steep slopes where extra strength is needed to prevent soil movement. For lighter applications, a thinner weave offers adequate protection while being more economical.
Coir comes in various forms beyond flat matting. Each product serves specific purposes in erosion control and land management projects.
Matting rolls are the most versatile option for covering large areas. They come in different weights measured in grams per square metre (gsm), which indicates the density and longevity of the product.
The standard 400gsm matting roll works well for residential landscaping and gentle slopes where vegetation will establish quickly and take over erosion control duties. It offers a good balance between cost and performance for most suburban projects.
Coir logs are cylindrical products made from compressed coir fibres wrapped in coir netting. They serve different purposes to flat matting and are particularly effective in specific situations.
The larger 300mm diameter log suits major waterway projects where substantial sediment control is required and flow rates are high. Smaller diameter logs work better for minor drainage lines and residential applications.
This biodegradable option is designed to be a permanent solution to preventing land erosion. It can withstand high wind and extreme temperatures.
It is also water-resistant and the natural fungi in the fibres help fight against rot and bacteria regeneration. Unlike synthetic options, coir breaks down naturally over time, eliminating the need for removal and disposal.
While coir is excellent for erosion control, other natural fibre products serve different purposes. Understanding the differences helps you select the right material for your project.
The standard jute roll option works brilliantly for short-term applications where rapid vegetation growth is expected and the matting only needs to last one season. It costs less than coir but won't provide the same long-term protection.
Coir matting is a versatile solution for fighting land erosion. Because of its properties, it is suitable for all areas such as wetlands, mining areas or general landscaping locations.
Slopes and flatlands are both apt locations as the coir mating is flexible in installation and application. The material conforms to ground contours naturally, making it easier to install than rigid synthetic alternatives.
The natural lignin content in coir fibres provides UV resistance, preventing rapid degradation in harsh Australian sunlight. This makes it particularly suitable for exposed sites where other natural fibres might break down too quickly.
As vegetation establishes through the matting, roots bind with the coir fibres to create a reinforced layer. This combination of natural and living materials provides superior erosion protection compared to either element alone.
Proper installation is critical to achieving the best results from coir matting. The material needs to be in full contact with the soil surface to function correctly.
Site preparation involves removing loose debris and creating a smooth surface. Any large holes or depressions should be filled to prevent bridging of the matting.
The matting should be installed as soon as possible after earthworks to minimise the time soil is exposed. Seeding can be done before or after installation depending on the project requirements.
On steep slopes above 3:1 gradient, the 200mm coir log can be installed at intervals across the slope to act as additional support structures and reduce the load on the matting. This combination approach provides extra security on challenging sites.
If you would like more information regarding product details or discount options, then call our friendly staff at 1300 130 123 or visit our coir matting product page. This environmentally safe, erosion control method is a strong and long-lasting solution for your needs.
Understanding how coir matting is made helps appreciate the natural engineering behind this effective erosion control solution. From coconut harvest to finished product, each step contributes to creating a material that protects soil while supporting vegetation growth.
