Erosion Mats vs. Grass Plugs on Slopes: Which Solution Works Best?

Erosion is a persistent challenge on sloped landscapes. Rainwater and gravity work together to strip away topsoil, leaving bare patches, unstable ground, and drainage problems behind. While a patchy or uneven slope might seem like a minor aesthetic issue, it often signals more serious concerns—declining soil health and long-term structural instability that can lead to costly repairs over time.

Using the right erosion control solution can make all the difference. While erosion mats are a common option for quick, short-term stabilization, grass plugs offer a living, growing solution that strengthens over time. 

So, which method truly holds up on slopes? Erosion mats can provide fast surface coverage and protection during the initial stages of vegetation establishment, but grass plugs—often sold in grass plug trays, like those from SodPods—are the more sustainable, long-term answer. With thoughtful planning and proper planting, they offer a natural way to stabilize slopes, reduce runoff, and improve soil health for years.

What Are Erosion Mats?

Erosion mats—also known as erosion control blankets—are manufactured materials used to protect bare soil from the forces of wind and water. These mats can be made from jute, coir (coconut fiber), straw, or synthetic netting. They are rolled out across slopes to provide an immediate protective layer that holds soil in place while vegetation becomes established.

These mats are usually used for turf installations, restoration projects, or areas disturbed by construction. They help prevent soil loss during the vulnerable early stages of plant growth, especially when seeding. While easy to install and effective in the short term, erosion mats are a temporary solution. Materials degrade over time—sometimes unevenly—requiring removal or replacement. Poor installation may also hinder root development; additional seeding or planting is often necessary for full coverage. Synthetic fibers can become a maintenance hazard, catching in mower blades or becoming tripping risks if not properly secured. Although useful for early erosion control, mats alone aren’t ideal for long-term slope stabilization.

What Are Grass Plugs?

Grass plugs are small, pre-grown sections of grass with established roots. Instead of broadcasting seed over a slope and hoping for uniform growth, you plant these plugs directly into the soil at spaced intervals. Each plug gradually spreads and fills in the gaps over time.

Plugs work particularly well on sloped terrain because their roots grow deep and wide, anchoring the soil and creating a living barrier against erosion. Unlike erosion mats, which are passive and temporary, grass plugs become stronger and more effective as they mature.

Benefits of Planting Grass Plugs on Slopes

Deep root systems: Stabilize soil and prevent erosion long term

Dense growth: Once established, plugs form a thick, natural barrier against runoff

Slope adaptability: They thrive in sloped environments where water tends to run off quickly

Low maintenance: Minimal care needed after plugs are established

Better erosion control than seeding: Seeds can wash away during heavy rain, but plugs stay put

Customizable spacing: Closer spacing means faster coverage and quicker soil stabilization

Spacing plays an important role in how quickly grass plugs establish an aid in erosion control. Tighter spacing leads to faster fill-in, providing earlier slope coverage and soil stabilization. The general recommendation is to space plugs 9 to 18 inches apart, depending on your budget and how quickly you want results. For more detailed guidance, including spacing tips tailored to different slope conditions, check out our article, How to Plant Grass Plugs on Slopes.

Why Grass Plugs Are the Better Long-Term Choice for Slopes

While erosion mats serve a purpose, grass plugs win in nearly every long-term category. Their deep, anchoring roots not only hold the soil in place but actively improve soil structure and health over time. They reduce surface runoff by absorbing rainfall and allowing better water infiltration.

Grass plugs also allow you to choose drought-tolerant varieties, such as bermudagrass plugs, making them ideal for sustainable landscaping. Over time, they improve the visual appeal of a slope, turning it from a problem area into a lush, healthy lawn or ground cover.

Can You Use Erosion Mats With Grass Plugs?

From a return-on-investment standpoint, grass plugs are an innovative, lasting solution. You plant once, and with proper care, they continue to grow stronger over time. Designed to thrive in challenging conditions, grass plugs are also user-friendly—an accessible option for homeowners. If you're concerned about initial soil erosion during the establishment phase, you can go a step further by pairing the plugs with biodegradable erosion mats. This combination offers the best of both worlds: immediate surface protection and long-term root-driven stability.

Biodegradable erosion mats, like those made from jute, coir, or straw, are most suitable when used with grass plugs. These mats help reduce surface runoff and hold the soil in place while the plugs take root. You can cut holes or slits in the mat to plant the plugs directly through it. This allows the grass to establish without being smothered. Some mats are specifically designed for this dual purpose—supporting seeded or plugged areas while gradually decomposing as the vegetation grows.

Final Thoughts

Both erosion mats and grass plugs have their place in erosion control strategies, especially on slopes. Erosion mats offer fast but temporary protection, while grass plugs provide a living, lasting solution that grows stronger over time. For the best results, use NutriPod—a pre-measured grass fertilizer pod designed to support healthy establishment and accelerate growth up to two times faster. With a 17-1-10 NPK ratio and nutrients that last up to 45 days, NutriPod helps grass plugs take root quickly and thrive, even on challenging slopes.

In terms of sustainable slope stabilization, grass plugs don’t simply stay in place—they strengthen, protect, and improve your landscape over the long haul.

Want more tips and solutions for using grass plugs on slopes? Visit SodPods for expert guidance and to buy grass sod plugs designed for long-term success.