Maintenance: Unsightly Riprap
(continued)

The live stakes, 1 1/2" or larger in diameter, must be cut and placed while they are dormant. The roots of these plants will reinforce the soil and dissipate energy from waves or stream flow. (See Live Stakes in Implementing Your Project, Steps & Techniques).

Plants can be placed in soil between the rocks. A trowel-full of soil placed between rocks in the upper part of the riprap (above water) will provide a substrate for planting. This technique should not be used during high water conditions where soil may erode into the lake.

Size, density and age of the rocks determines whether the riprap is conducive to planting. In some cases, riprap can be seeded effectively with a mixture of grasses and wildflowers. For cover within the first year, seed with early seasonal species such as jewelweed (Impatiens capensis) and black-eyed susan (Rudbeckia hirta).

Certain sedges, rushes, and grasses will cascade beautifully over riprap and help to conceal it. Species such as fox sedge, (Carex vulpinoidea), rattlesnake manna grass (Glyceria canadensis ), tall manna grass (Glyceria grandis), and dark green bulrush (Scirpus atrovirens) are good choices.

Vines are another effective option for softening the hard look of the rocks, such as Virgin's bower (Clematis virginiana ), Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus vitacea ), and wild grape (Vitis riparia).