- Plants slow down the force of moving water.Kim Carson/Photodisc/Getty Images
The force of water is destructive. Plants are used along shorelines to stabilize the land that comes in contact with the water. Wetland plants are used because of their anchor-like root systems and their ability to withstand periodic flooding. Wetland plants include cattails, duckweed and bulrushes.
Plants along shorelines also slow down the flow of water and, thus, filter out sediments and pollutants. Plant material provides habitat for animals. - A sloped landscape can be beautiful.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
Erosion can happen on a hillside due to gravity. Loose soil gets pulled down, and level out the slope. Plant roots hold the soil in place. Taller plants that do well on slopes include spreading shrubs ninebark or English yews, and such perennials as daylilies and gaillardia. If you want to keep sight lines open, use vinca or sedum ground covers. - Trees reduce the impact of wind at ground level.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
A row of trees can provide protection for a large area. Evergreen trees like pines, spruces or cedar are often used. The needles provide protection from wind all year round. Prairie grasses including big blue stem, Indian grass or sporabolus hold up well against the wind. Liatris and silphium prairie flowers are pretty and functional. - Exposed soil can blow away with the winter wind.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
Cover crops are used to protect farm fields or garden plots. Exposed soil can be blown away by the wind. Cover crops are planted after the food crop is harvested. When it is time to plant the next food crop, farmers plow under the cover crop to provide organic nutrients for the soil.
Legumes are often used as cover crops because they also add nitrogen to the soil. Plants used as cover crops include soy beans, clover, alfalfa and oats.
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