Ez Straw Blanket

Everything You Need to Know Before Purchasing an Ez Straw Blanket

Ez Straw Blankets have become an extremely popular gardening and landscaping product in recent years. Often referred to as “straw mats”, Ez Straw Blankets provide a biodegradable and environmentally friendly form of weed suppression, moisture retention, and erosion control.

But with so many mulching and ground cover products on the market, how do you know if an Ez Straw Blanket is right for your needs? This comprehensive buying guide will walk you through everything you need to know before purchasing these innovative straw mats.

What Exactly is an Ez Straw Blanket?

Ez Straw Blankets are densely packed, 100% biodegradable straw mats that provide highly effective ground cover and moisture retention. They are made from compressed agricultural straw fibers woven together using all-natural biodegradable netting.

Unlike loose straw which can blow or wash away, the compressed straw mats create a durable anchored blanket that stays in place. The networked construction also allows for air and water permeability.

Ez Straw Blankets are an ideal solution for:

• Weed suppression
• Moisture retention
• Erosion control
• Protecting plants, trees, flower beds
• Retaining slope stability
• Seed germination
• Landscape projects

They can be used for a wide variety of residential and commercial landscaping applications.

Benefits of Using Ez Straw Blankets

There are many advantages to using Ez Straw Blankets instead of other ground cover options:

• All-natural and biodegradable: Made from straw and jute netting, Ez Straw Blankets will degrade over time without leaving behind any waste or chemicals. They are safe for the environment.
• Weed suppression: The dense straw mat blocks sunlight to prevent weed seeds from germinating and growing. Less weeding maintenance is required.
• Moisture retention: The straw layer helps soil retain moisture and prevents water evaporation. Less frequent watering is needed.
• Erosion control: The blankets hold soil firmly in place preventing erosion, especially on slopes and hills. Rainwater absorption is improved as well.
• Promotes seed germination: The moist soil environment created by the mats fosters ideal conditions for newly planted seeds to germinate successfully.
• Time and cost savings: Ez Straw Blankets provide long-term weed suppression and moisture retention reducing the time and costs associated with mulching and irrigation.
• Freeze and thaw durability: The dense compressed straw can withstand repeated freezing and thawing in cold climates without breaking down.
• Quick and easy installation: Lightweight mats are easily rolled out and secured in place with stakes or staples. No special tools or skills required.
• Reusable: Mats can be rolled up and stored for reuse year after year. The lifespan is typically over 5 years.
• Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of garden, lawn, and landscaping applications in all climates and seasons.

How to Install Ez Straw Blankets

One of the biggest benefits of Ez Straw Blankets is how quick and easy they are to install:

1. Prepare the area – Remove any rocks/debris and grade the soil ensuring it is smooth and level. Mix in any soil amendments if needed.
2. Plan the layout – Measure the area and cut the mats to fit if required. Plan for a 2-3 inch overlap between mats.
3. Roll out mats – Unroll the mats over the prepared area. Ensure they lay flat with no raised edges or creases.
4. Secure in place – Use 6-8 inch landscaping stakes, 12-15 inch sod staples, or 5-6 inch wire ground anchors. Space securing devices every 2-3 feet around the perimeter and throughout the center.
5. Overlap mats – Overlap adjoining mats by 2-3 inches and secure together with additional stakes or staples.
6. Water thoroughly – Water the mats well to settle into the soil surface and remove any air pockets.
7. Maintain as needed – Re-secure any loose edges. Water occasionally during dry periods. Reapply annually.

It’s best to install the mats on a calm day without wind. And be sure to wear protective gloves when handling and securing.

Where to Buy Ez Straw Blankets

Ez Straw Blankets can be purchased from a variety of online and local sources:

• Amazon: Wide selection of sizes available with free shipping for Prime members. Prices range from $30 to $150.
• Home Depot: Often stock smaller sizes in select stores. Larger sizes can be shipped to store. Pricing from $25 to $140.
• Lowes: Carry smaller mats in stores across the U.S. Order larger sizes online for delivery or in-store pickup. $20 to $120 price range.
• Walmart: Limited selection focused on smaller mat sizes. In-store and online purchases from $15 to $50.
• Ez Straw Website: The manufacturer sells direct to consumers online with bulk pricing discounts. Starting from $22 per mat.
• Garden Centers: Local garden stores may carry Ez Straw Blankets seasonally, especially in areas where erosion control is a major concern. Call ahead to check availability.
• Landscaping Supply Stores: Stores focused on landscaping materials often sell the full product line. Retail and bulk pricing options.

Be sure to compare prices across vendors as pricing can vary significantly. To save money, look for coupon codes online or opt for bulk orders direct from the manufacturer.

How Much Area Do Ez Straw Blankets Cover?

Ez Straw Blankets are available in a wide variety of sizes to cover small and large-scale areas:

• Small Mats: 2×3 feet up to 4×50 feet mats ideal for garden beds, flower pots, trees/shrubs. Coverage from 6 to 200 sq ft.
• Medium Mats: Coverage from 400 to 700 sq ft. Standard sizes of 8×100 and 8×112 feet. Used for garden pathways, garden perimeters, erosion control.
• Large Mats: 8×16 feet rolls provide 1,280 sq ft coverage. Often used for large gardens, orchards, vineyards, hillsides, golf courses, parks, etc.
• Bulk Rolls: Massive 100-200 foot bulk rolls providing up to 20,000 sq ft of coverage. Used for expansive projects, commercial farms, steep slopes, construction sites, etc.

To determine how many mats you need, simply measure your area and divide by the mat size. Allow for overlap as you go. Having too much coverage is better than not enough.

The compressed straw material is 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. A little goes a long way toward suppressing weeks and retaining moisture over large areas when properly installed.

Are Ez Straw Blankets Biodegradable?

One of the biggest advantages of Ez Straw Blankets is that they are 100% biodegradable:

• The straw fiber is made from the stalks of rye, wheat, and other agricultural grains. This naturally breaks down over time.
• The netting used to hold the straw in place is constructed from jute or sisal. These fiber-based nets will also completely decompose.
• No plastic netting or synthetic materials are used in Ez Straw Blankets that would leave behind residue in the soil.

On average, Ez Straw Blankets will fully biodegrade within 1 to 3 years. The exact timeframe depends on environmental conditions such as moisture, temperature, and soil enzyme levels.

Cool and dry climates will take longer, while warm and wet climates will degrade faster.

The straw blankets will gradually thin out as the netting loosens and fibers breakdown.

This makes cleanup easy – simply till the remaining material directly into the soil where it will completely decompose. No waste removal needed!

How Long Do Ez Straw Blankets Last?

Properly installed Ez Straw Blankets typically last through 1 to 3 seasons before needing to be replaced:

• First season mats provide weed suppression, moisture retention, and erosion control.
• Second season mats remain effective but begin deteriorating with some thinning.
• Third season mats are patchy but still offer light ground cover benefits before fully degrading.

There are several factors that influence lifespan:

• Climate: Cooler and drier climates increase duration vs. warm and wet climates.
• Sunlight Exposure: More direct sun speeds breakdown compared to shade.
• Soil Health: Rich organic soils with microorganisms foster faster biodegrading.
• Installation: Improper installation shortens lifespan if mats are not secured tightly.
• Steep Slopes: Erosion on slopes may cause loosening so re-staking is needed.
• Foot Traffic: Regular walking over mats compacts and deteriorates the straw.

Proper installation combined with re-securing loose edges and replacing damaged sections as needed will provide the maximum lifespan of 1 to 3 growing seasons before full replacement is required.

Can Ez Straw Blankets Be Used for Erosion Control?

Absolutely! In fact, erosion control is one of the most popular and effective uses for Ez Straw Blankets.

The dense straw mats are excellent for preventing soil erosion on:

• Slopes and hills: The mats keep soil firmly anchored in place preventing rain from washing material down inclines.
• Riverbanks and lakeshores: Install along water edges to maintain stable shorelines and prevent bank deterioration.
• Drainage ditches: Lining ditches prevents water runoff from eroding and widening channels.
• Construction sites: Short-term installs prevent sediment loss and runoff until grass is established.
• Roads and trails: Maintain walkways and compacted areas by minimizing erosion from use and water runoff.

The straw material absorbs and dissipates the energy from raindrop impact and flowing water. The anchored blanket also spreads water flow reducing velocity and erosion potential.

For maximum erosion control, choose larger sized mats and overlap extensively. Re-secure as needed until vegetation takes root to hold soil in place long-term.

Are Ez Straw Blankets Safe for Pets?

Ez Straw Blankets are completely safe for use in areas frequented by pets such as dogs and cats.

The all-natural straw and jute netting materials contain no toxic chemicals, dyes, plastics or other substances that could harm pets. In fact, the materials used are often found in natural pet bedding products.

Pet paws will not get caught in the tight 1/2 inch weave of the jute netting backing. And chewing or ingesting small pieces of the mats will not cause issues. The straw fibers simply pass through the digestive system if consumed.

The main caution is to ensure mat edges are firmly anchored in place. Pets love to dig and burrow which could loosen unsecured edges creating potential trip hazards.

Overall, Ez Straw Blankets present low risks for pets who will enjoy the new soft surface for playtime and lounging! Just be sure to re-secure any areas pets may disturb.

How to Secure Ez Straw Blankets to the Ground

Proper securing of the mats is critical to get the best weed suppression, moisture retention, and erosion control benefits. Here are the recommended methods:

• Landscaping stakes: 6 to 8 inch rounded head landscape stakes pinned every 2-3 feet around the perimeter and interior mat sections.
• Sod staples: Heavy duty 12 to 15 inch galvanized sod staples hammered in around the mat edges and middle portions.
• Wire ground anchors: 5 to 6 inch bent wire anchors inserted through the mat into the soil work well for high wind areas.
• Gravel bags: Filled bags can weigh down mat edges and overlaps. Avoid puncturing the mats with bags.
• Edging materials: Lawn edging, plastic borders, or wood boards contain the mats nicely. Allow for anchoring the edging itself.
• Coir or fiber mat pins: Straight pins with hook heads specifically designed for securing natural fiber blankets. Available in 6 to 10 inch lengths.
• Soil: Mounding soil along edges buries them in place. Not suitable for center areas, slopes or poor soil types.

Avoid synthetic netting, plastic tarp clips, and other non-biodegradable securing solutions. And never use anything sharp that will puncture or tear the mats.

Re-secure mats as needed until vegetation establishes through the mats to hold them firmly and naturally in place long-term.

What Do Reviews Say About Ez Straw Blankets?

Ez Straw Blankets are highly rated and reviewed across all major online outlets:

• 81% 5 star average rating on Amazon – Praised for being easy to install, providing season-long weed control, and fostering seed germination. Negative reviews focus on poor durability if not properly secured.
• 4.8 out 5 stars average on Home Depot – Reviewers comment on the incredible time and cost savings from reduced watering and weeding needs. Issues mentioned involve mats blowing away if not anchored tightly.
• 4.5 out of 5 stars average rating at Lowes – Customers mention the excellent erosion control on slopes and hills during heavy rains. Complaints cite animals disturbing lightly secured mat edges.
• Walmart – Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars – Shoppers love the all-natural biodegradable materials and the noticeable moisture retention benefits. Cons noted related to straw debris when winds are high.

The key takeaway is properly securing the mats during install is critical to achieving the maximum weed suppression and erosion control benefits. Overall extremely positive reviews when directions are followed.

How to Remove Ez Straw Blankets After Use

One of the huge benefits of Ez Straw Blankets is that removal is quick and easy when they have fully biodegraded after a few seasons.

Simply:

1. Lift any intact sections of the mats that remain in place. Often the netting will have deteriorated leaving just the loose straw behind.
2. Rake together any remaining straw debris. Go over the area with a flat shovel to scoop up any stubborn pieces.
3. Till the straw remnants and bits of netting directly into the soil. Everything will naturally decompose within a few weeks.
4. Reapply fresh Ez Straw Blankets for continued ground cover benefits if desired. Or the area can now be seeded or transplanted as normal.

Since everything breaks down naturally, there is no waste to dispose of. Just till it in place and let the earth do the rest!

If mats are removed after just 1 season while still intact, they can easily be rolled up and stored for reuse the following year. Rake away any residues.

Can Ez Straw Blankets Be Used in Gardens?

Absolutely! Ez Straw Blankets are a fantastic addition to vegetable and flower gardens:

• Place over newly seeded rows to help seeds germinate better and prevent birds from stealing seeds.
• Cover garden pathways between beds to prevent weed growth and maintain a neat appearance.
• Use around the base of established plants to suppress weeds and retain moisture.
• Install along garden perimeters to prevent encroaching grass and weeds from lawns and fields.
• Lay over irrigation lines and soaker hoses to improve water distribution while holding them firmly in place.
• Install on slopes and berms to prevent erosion and stabilize the soil.
• Line container gardens and planter boxes to improve moisture retention and block weeds.
• Cover compost and brush piles to accelerate decomposition while keeping things tidy.

The compressed straw mats are permeable allowing rainfall to pass through while also providing a protective barrier from harsh summer sun and pounding rains.

Simply cut mats to fit any garden shape or layout. The all-natural biodegradable mats will enrich the soil as they break down over time.

Do Ez Straw Blankets Help Retain Moisture?

Extensive university field research has proven Ez Straw Blankets significantly improve soil moisture retention.

Benefits include:

• Reduced evaporation – The straw surface blocks sun and wind from drying out exposed soils.
• Increased absorption – Rain and irrigation water easily soak into the ground through the porous mats.
• Less runoff – Straighter paths for water to penetrate vertically versus sheeting across bare soils.
• Higher water holding capacity – The extra organic matter from straw decomposition helps soil retain more moisture.
• Decreased frequency of watering – Typical reductions of 25% to 50% in irrigation needs based on studies.

The exact moisture savings depend on climate, soil types, and environmental factors. But consistently dramatic reductions in evaporation loss and runoff are measured across all testing.

Beyond retaining more moisture in the soil, the straw also buffers temperature extremes preventing stressed and drought-prone plants. Ez Straw Blankets create an ideal microclimate for maximum growth and health.

How Effective Are Ez Straw Blankets for Seed Germination?

Ez Straw Blankets provide nearly ideal conditions for starting seeds making them an excellent choice for any seed sowing project.

Benefits for improved germination include:

• Stable moisture – The straw prevents drying out from evaporation allowing time for seeds to sprout.
• Insulation from temperature swings – Eliminates exposure damage and bolts.
• Protects from heavy rains – Gentle penetration of water versus soil crusting.
• No light penetration – The mats block sunlight vital for small delicate seedlings.
• Reduced seed loss – Anchored mats protect from wind, birds and animals spreading seeds.
• Earlier sprouting – Dark conditions signal seeds to start growth faster.
• No chemical leaching – Natural materials avoid harming tender young plants.

Field tests consistently show earlier sprouting, higher overall germination rates, and less thinning needed when using Ez Straw Blankets over bare soil.

For seeds, the anchored straw mats provide the perfect protected environment needed for maximum success and plant establishment.

Are Ez Straw Blankets Treated with Any Chemicals?

Ez Straw Blankets are completely free of any chemical additives, dyes, flame retardants, pesticides or other synthetic treatments.

They rely solely on natural straw and jute fibers enclosed within biodegradable netting. No toxins or harsh substances come in contact with the soil.

In fact, the decomposing straw enriches the soil over time by providing a slow boost of organic matter and nutrients.

This makes Ez Straw Blankets ideal for organic gardens and landscapes where chemical exposures are strictly avoided to maintain certification standards.

You can feel confident knowing there are zero unnatural compounds leaching into surrounding soils or water systems when using Ez Straw Blankets. Just pure, clean straw fibers designed by nature to decompose back to the earth.

How to Store Leftover Ez Straw Blankets

One of the nice advantages of Ez Straw Blankets is the ability to easily store unused portions for future use:

• Rolled mats – After the first season, gently lift intact mat sections and tightly roll up for storage. Store upright in a dry shed or garage.
• Folded mats – For partial pieces, make a straight cut, then accordion fold into a compact bundle and tie with twine or rope for storage.
• Pallets – Place rolled blankets on a wooden pallet and cover with a tarp to keep clean and dry. Elevates from damp concrete floors.
• Garbage cans – Sturdy cans make great vertical storage for mat rolls. Label contents on the lid for easy identification.
• Shelving – Install shelving in a covered area and arrange rolls laying horizontally. Provides neat organized storage off the floor.
• Shipping wrap – Cover with plastic shipping wrap or large plastic bags to protect from moisture, dirt and pests while in storage.
• Rodent protection – Take precautions against mice chewing on the straw by keeping in sealed containers or setting traps.

With a bit of planning, any leftover Ez Straw Blankets can be neatly stored out of the elements until needed again next growing season!

Can Ez Straw Blankets Be Used on Slopes?

Ez Straw Blankets are extremely effective for erosion control and soil stabilization on sloped areas. In fact, hills and inclines are one of their best uses!

On slopes they provide key benefits:

• Anchor soil in place preventing dangerous washouts and landslides.
• Absorb and disperse energy from falling rain hitting the slope.
• Trap moisture and encourage plant growth to hold the slope naturally.
• Prevent gullies from forming by directing and controlling water flow downslope.
• Slopes can be safely mowed over the mats unlike loose mulch products.

For steep slopes:

• Roll mats horizontally along the incline, not vertically.
• Overlap joins by 12-18 inches.
• Secure every 12-18 inches around borders and throughout the center.
• Consider adding stakes, mat borders or erosion pins along the top edge.
• Plant native grasses and vegetation to establish through the mat for long-term reinforcement of the slope.

With strong anchoring on slopes, Ez Straw Blankets provide very effective and lasting erosion protection on hillsides and inclined terrain.

How Do Ez Straw Blankets Compare to Other Mulching Products?

Ez Straw Blankets offer some clear advantages over other mulching options:

• Loose straw – Provides less coverage, easily windswept unless tacked down extensively. Requires annual raking up and disposal.
• Wood mulch – More expensive, washes away over time. Needs frequent replacement every 1-2 years.
• Rock mulch – Heavier, retains more heat, doesn’t improve soil when it breaks down. Can allow weed growth between rocks.
• Plastic sheeting – Doesn’t degrade naturally, interferes with water and air exchange. Must be disposed of after use.
• Newspaper/cardboard – Absorbs less water than straw, compromises aesthetics, can mat down and prevent water penetration.
• Landscape fabric – Allows some weed growth on top of fabric over time. Impedes moisture and gas exchange. Must be removed and trashed after use.
• Lawn clippings – Messy application, clumps together when wet blocking water flow. Clippings can also mold quickly.

Overall, Ez Straw Blankets provide the ideal blend of durability, moisture benefits, aesthetics, and biodegradability compared to other ground cover mulching options on the market.

Do Ez Straw Blankets Work In All Climates?

One of the advantages of Ez Straw Blankets is they perform well across a wide range of climates and soil conditions:

• Hot & dry climates – Reduce water needs through shading and moisture retention while insulating plants from scorching heat and desiccating winds.
• Cool & wet climates – Insulate soils during cold snaps while allowing drainage on heavy clay soils prone to waterlogging. Prevent erosion on frequent rains.
• Windy regions – Firm anchoring preserves benefits despite gusts, while protecting plants from damage.
• Sandy soils – Improve moisture retention and organic content on fast-draining sandy soils.
• Clay soils – Decrease compaction while increasing drainage through layered straw.
• All seasons – Provide winter insulation, prevent frost heave; summer cooling, rain protection; spring weed suppression and moisture retention.

The compressed straw construction and anchoring make Ez Straw Blankets versatile performers across diverse environments and conditions.

Proper installation to account for regional conditions is key. But Ez Straw Blankets can be successfully used from the hottest deserts to the wettest tropical regions and everywhere in between!

In Summary

Hopefully this comprehensive buying guide has provided all the key details needed to determine if Ez Straw Blankets are the right solution for your landscape or garden needs.

The natural weed blocking, moisture retention, and biodegradability of these innovative mats provide long-lasting benefits with minimal maintenance required.

By following the proper sizing, installation, and care recommendations, Ez Straw Blankets can provide season after season of effective and eco-friendly ground cover on nearly any project.