Our team often fields questions about the merits of different horticultural matting, including jute, wool, and coir (coco).
When it comes to landscaping, choosing the right horticultural matting can significantly impact establishing plants and protecting the soil. Jute, Wool, and Coir (Coco) are excellent natural options with unique characteristics.
This blog will highlight the different qualities between the mats and help you select the best one for your project.
Our team is committed to providing you with high-quality landscaping solutions. We have heavily researched the different matting products on the market and are confident in the performance of our SmartGro Jute, Wool, and Coir (Coco) Matting. Each matting is tried and true in landscaping projects of every size and scope, and we would be happy to discuss a few examples with you.
Let’s explore the options.
SMARTGRO JUTE MATTING: Lightweight and Versatile
Our Smartgro Jute Matting is made from the fibres of the jute plant, offering a biodegradable and eco-friendly solution.
Natural materials in planting projects are rapidly growing in popularity, and SmartGro Jute Mat is widely embraced by landscapers, landowners and property developers.
This high-performing mat acts as a mulch, retaining moisture to support plant development and protect soil from erosion. Designed to break down over time, SmartGro Jute Matting is ideal for wetlands and riparian batters, garden and revegetating beds, and coastal and high-wind sites.
Key Benefits:
- Soil Stabilisation: Excellent for erosion control on slopes or areas with loose soil.
- Lightweight: Easy to transport and install, making it ideal for large projects.
- Effective: Hugs the contours of the ground.
- Cost-Effective: A budget-friendly option for landscapers.
- Flexible: Strong and stable, reinforced with tough jute twine.
- Easy on the eye: Blends in with the natural landscape.
- Reduces plant stress: Retains moisture and soil temps, allows fertiliser to penetrate.
- Acts as a roll-on mulch.
- Excellent weed suppressant while plants establish (reducing herbicide use).
- No plastic mesh to tangle with wildlife or machinery.
Best Use Examples:
- Stabilising steep slopes.
- Intensive plantings where canopy closure is expected in 12 months (550gsm is popular).
- Establishing grass or native vegetation in areas prone to erosion.
- Long-lasting weed suppression (choose the 750gsm option)
- Temporary soil protection during construction projects.
WOOL MATTING: Nature’s Insulation
Our Smartgro Wool Matting is made right here in NZ! Crafted from 100% natural sheep wool, it is highly valued for its moisture retention and nutrient properties. Our wool matting is available in rolls and pre-cut squares, providing landscapers with more flexibility in their projects.
Wool is excellent for organic growing and is a smart alternative to chemicals. The yarn is not dyed or bleached and is fully biodegradable. Natural jute reinforcing binds the matting together and gives it strength.
Key Benefits:
- Moisture Retention: Absorbs and holds water, reducing irrigation needs.
- Biodegradable Nutrients: Over time it breaks down to enrich the soil with nitrogen, potassium, sulphur, and other beneficial compounds to improve its overall structure and fertility.
- Thermal Insulation: Protects plant roots from extreme temperatures and holds a steady temperature which can extend the growing period.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Muted natural colouring blends well with plants and surroundings.
Best Use Examples:
- Around young trees and shrubs to aid establishment.
- Projects in dry conditions.
- Landscaping where added soil nutrition is needed.
COIR (COCO) MATTING: Durable and Long-Lasting
Our Coco Fibre Matting in three different grades is made from coconut husk fibres, which offer durability and a coarser texture.
Designed to support the vegetation establishment, this smart fibre matting acts as a protective shield for exposed soil. Its biodegradable nature ensures minimal environmental impact, which aligns well with a landscaper’s sustainable practices.
Key Benefits:
- Durability: Strong and resistant to wear, ideal for high-traffic areas or heavy rainfall.
- Erosion Control: Highly effective at stabilising soil and retaining moisture.
- Root Protection: Allows plants to establish roots through its robust weave.
- Enables moisture penetration, helping vegetation establish while insulating seed and root zones against temperature fluctuations.
Best Use Examples:
- Coastal or riparian planting projects.
- Stabilising areas with strong water flow, such as drains or waterways.
- Long-term landscaping projects requiring durable solutions.
WHICH MATTING IS RIGHT FOR YOUR PROJECT?
- Choose Jute if cost and ease of installation are priorities.
- Opt for Wool if moisture retention and soil health are key considerations.
- Select Coir for projects demanding durability and erosion resistance.
Each type of matting plays a crucial role in sustainable landscaping, and we commend all who use natural materials – they help promote environmental stewardship. If you’re unsure about the matting choices available, please get in touch with our team for expert advice tailored to your project requirements.
