Jute matting is an organic and eco-friendly geotextile used to protect young trees and shrubs by reducing thriving weeds. This erosion control fabric is also designed to stabilise topsoil and regulate the volume of stormwater (or water runoffs) which potentially damages plants.
Jute matting encourages plant growth on poor slopes as it improves water absorption and protects topsoil. The natural fibres break down gradually over time, enriching the soil while your vegetation establishes itself.
Not all jute matting is created equal. The weight and style you choose will depend on your specific application and site conditions.
For standard erosion control on gentle slopes and flat areas, this 620gsm jute roll provides reliable coverage and will biodegrade naturally over 12-24 months. If you're dealing with steeper slopes or areas requiring longer-term stabilisation, the heavier 750gsm option offers greater durability and extended protection while vegetation establishes.
Consider these factors when selecting your matting:
Before starting the installation, make sure that you have all the right equipment at hand. Proper preparation will make the job significantly easier and ensure better results.
You will need:
Proper site preparation is critical for successful jute matting installation. Take the time to prepare the surface correctly before laying any matting.
Remove all objects such as stones, weeds or scraps, levelling the ground according to the slope grade you want. Large rocks or debris left under the matting will create air pockets that reduce soil contact and can cause the matting to lift.
You may need to supplement soil treatments on the surface by distributing fertiliser or soil conditioners depending on the finish you want to achieve. Rake the area smooth to ensure good contact between the matting and soil surface.
For areas where you'll be establishing new vegetation from seed, apply your seed mix before installing the matting. The matting will protect the seeds while allowing water and light penetration for germination.
Step 1: Excavate and anchor the top edge
Dig a trench with a recommended depth of 200mm (8 inches) and a width of 150mm (6 inches) at the top of the area you have seeded. This anchor trench is essential for preventing the matting from lifting or sliding down the slope.
Insert the top edge of the matting into the trench and pin the fabric into the ground using a rubber mallet. Use at least three pins across the width to secure it firmly before backfilling.
Step 2: Unroll and position the matting
Carefully unroll the jute matting down the slope, ensuring it remains in full contact with the soil surface. Make sure that the top end of the mat is compacted in the trench by backfilling the area you have dug.
Avoid stretching the matting tight, as this can cause it to lift. Instead, allow it to conform naturally to the ground contours for maximum soil contact.
Step 3: Secure with pins
The jute matting should be pinned using 3 U-shaped pins to be placed on the right end, centre, and left end of the fabric. It is recommended that you use 3 pins per square metre to ensure that the fabric remains fully intact to the ground.
Drive pins in at a slight angle pointing upslope for better holding power. On steeper slopes or in windy areas, you may need to increase the pin density to 4-5 pins per square metre.
Step 4: Overlap adjoining rolls
When laying the next roll, you have to overlap the ends of the mat across the preceding mat by at least 100mm and pin it into place. This overlap prevents erosion between rolls and ensures complete coverage.
Continue doing this on subsequent rolls, maintaining consistent overlap and pinning patterns. On slopes, always overlap in the downslope direction (like roof tiles) to shed water effectively.
Step 5: Settle the matting
After the overlapping mats were successfully fastened altogether, spray the jute matting with water and it will conform to the land surface to make the planting much easier. This initial watering also helps activate the natural fibres and begins the bonding process with the soil.
If you're planting seedlings or tube stock through the matting, you'll need to create openings in the fabric. For projects requiring multiple plantings, this pre-slitted 620gsm roll saves considerable time as the openings are already cut at regular intervals.
For non-slitted matting, cut an X-shaped slit where you want to plant using scissors or a suitable cutter. Make the opening just large enough to accommodate the plant without leaving excessive exposed soil.
Dig a hole through the cut fabric to the appropriate depth for your plant. Place your plant in the hole, ensuring the root ball sits at the correct level.
Backfill around the plant with soil, firming gently to eliminate air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and help establishment.
Jute matting requires minimal maintenance once installed correctly. Regular inspection during the first few weeks will help identify any areas that may have lifted or need additional pinning.
The natural fibres will begin to break down after 6-12 months, depending on climate conditions. Complete decomposition typically occurs within 12-24 months, by which time your vegetation should be well established.
Monitor these aspects during the establishment phase:
While jute matting is excellent for most applications, some situations may benefit from alternative products. Understanding your options helps you choose the best solution for your specific conditions.
For longer-lasting erosion control in high-traffic areas or where vegetation establishment may take longer, this 400gsm coir option provides extended durability with a lifespan of 3-5 years while still being completely biodegradable. Coir is more resistant to breakdown in wet conditions and offers excellent protection on steeper slopes.
Compare these common erosion control materials:
All Stake Supply offers a variety of geotextiles and erosion control products to suit different landscaping requirements. Choosing the right product for your site conditions will ensure the best results and value for your investment.
