Commercial Seeding, Hydroseeding and Erosion Control
Successful seeding depends on more than putting seed in the ground. Site conditions, soil preparation, access, gradient, moisture, erosion risk and the final use of the land all need to be considered before work begins.
Oliver Brown Ltd works with contractors, landowners, local authorities and project teams to deliver practical seeding solutions across a wide range of sites. We can work to an existing specification from a landscape architect or consultant, or advise on a suitable approach based on the project requirements.
Our seeding work can support grassland establishment, amenity areas, wildflower meadows, habitat creation, land restoration, embankments, slopes and erosion control schemes.
Accredited Flexterra HP-FGM Installer
Oliver Brown Ltd became one of the first two accredited installers of Flexterra HP-FGM in the UK in 2014, giving clients added confidence when specialist hydroseeding and erosion control systems are required.
Flexterra HP-FGM is the market-leading high performance flexible growth medium manufactured by Profile Products. When applied correctly, it can replace rolled erosion blankets and is up to 99% effective at reducing surface erosion.
This sits alongside our wider seeding capabilities, including conventional seeding, hydroseeding, erosion control and habitat establishment across commercial and environmental sites. Seeding, hydroseeding and erosion control are long-standing specialisms for Oliver Brown Ltd, supported by experienced operators, specialist machinery and practical site knowledge.
Seeding methods tailored to your site conditions
Different sites need different seeding methods. Oliver Brown Ltd provides conventional seeding, hydroseeding and erosion control solutions for commercial, environmental and land restoration projects.
Whether the work involves grassland establishment, wildflower meadows, slopes, embankments or exposed ground, we can recommend the right approach based on access, ground conditions, project specification and long-term use of the site. This can include traditional drilling and cultivation methods, or specialist hydroseeding using products such as Flexterra or ProGanics where a more controlled application is required.
Conventional Cultivation and Seeding
For suitable sites, conventional seeding remains a reliable and cost-effective way to establish grass, wildflower and habitat creation areas.
We use modern, professional cultivation and seeding equipment to prepare the ground, create a suitable seedbed and drill seed accurately across the required area. This can include work with agricultural tractors, compact tractors, seed drills, cultivators, power harrows, discs, Güttler and Einböck machinery.
This approach is well suited to accessible land, amenity spaces, restored ground and sites where traditional preparation and drilling methods are practical.
Hydroseeding
Hydroseeding is used where conventional seeding is less suitable, including slopes, embankments, difficult access areas, restoration sites and ground where rapid, even coverage is required.
The process applies a mixed slurry of seed, water, hydroseeding mulch, tackifier and fertiliser where required to the prepared surface. Depending on the site requirements, this can include products such as wood fibre, ProMatrix EFM, Flexterra HP-FGM and/or ProGanics BSM.
Hydroseeding can be particularly useful where erosion risk needs to be managed, access is restricted, terrain is challenging or conventional seeding is not appropriate or safe.
Erosion control
Where bare or disturbed ground is vulnerable to water run-off, wind exposure or surface movement, erosion control needs to be considered early.
With over 25 years as specialists in this area, we offer erosion control seeding and hydroseeding solutions to help stabilise exposed ground, protect slopes and support vegetation establishment. On either a consultancy or contracting basis, we can support projects such as embankments, infrastructure developments, restored land, watercourse-adjacent areas and other sensitive or challenging environments.
The right method will depend on the site gradient, soil condition, exposure, access and project specification. Where required, this may include specialist products such as Flexterra HP-FGM.
The right equipment for the site
Every site is different, so we use a practical mix of specialist machinery to match the ground conditions and project requirements.
Our seeding equipment can include:
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Hydroseeders from 2,000 litres upwards, with the ability to pump a wide range of slurry thicknesses
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Seed drills, from agricultural to pedestrian equipment
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Agricultural and compact tractors
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Cultivators, from agricultural to pedestrian equipment
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Subsoilers
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Aebi mounting tractor with relevant attachments
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Remote control machines with seeding attachments
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Güttler and Einböck equipment
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360 excavators with cultivation attachments
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Quad bikes and low ground pressure machinery
This allows us to work across large open sites, smaller or restricted areas, prepared ground, uneven terrain and more technically challenging locations.
Seeding and Hydroseeding for Complex Commercial Sites
Oliver Brown Ltd delivers seeding, hydroseeding and erosion control work across a wide range of commercial, infrastructure and environmental projects.
This includes construction sites, highways, access routes, restored land, quarries, solar farms, habitat creation schemes, amenity areas, slopes, embankments and erosion-prone ground. Each site is assessed on its conditions, access, specification and long-term use, so the right method can be used from the start.
From conventional grass and wildflower seeding through to hydroseeding for more challenging areas, the focus is on choosing the right approach from the start. This can include soil testing and analysis, soil amendments where required, pH buffering and weed control before works begin. This experience is reflected in the range of sites Oliver Brown Ltd has worked on, including quarries, airports, council schemes, environmental projects and major commercial operations.
Our Recent Seeding Projects
How we approach seeding projects
1. Site
review
We review the site conditions, access, ground preparation requirements, specification and any erosion risks, as well as collecting and analysing soil samples where required.
2. Method recommendation
After reviewing the soil analysis, we can advise what soil amendments may be required, whether the seed mix is suitable, if the specification needs adjusting, and whether conventional seeding, hydroseeding or a combined approach is most appropriate.
3. Ground preparation
Where required, we prepare the ground using appropriate cultivation and seedbed preparation equipment. This may include pre-seed fertiliser, pH buffers or other specialist amendments.
4. Seeding or hydroseeding
Seed is applied using the most suitable method for the site, specification and required finish. Hydroseeding may use wood fibre, Flexterra HP-FGM and/or ProGanics BSM at suitable application rates. Conventional seeding may use pedestrian or agricultural machinery, depending on site requirements.
5. Follow-up guidance
We can advise on establishment considerations, aftercare requirements and any related maintenance or irrigation needs.
"I have used Oliver Brown on multiple occasions for a variety of landscaping works and have always been impressed with the quality of their work. Every time on site they have completed the task to a high standard, on time and with attention to detail.
I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them and will definitely continue using them for future projects."
Charlie Fitzmaurice - Site Manager for Thomas Bow Ltd
"Oliver Brown Ltd have been our contractor of choice for our hydro seeding operations for the past 15 years, and will continue to be so going forward. Led from the front by Oliver himself, nothing is ever too much trouble, and the whole team possess a "can do" attitude, flexibility and willingness to get our projects over the line promptly and efficiently. It's been an absolute pleasure to work alongside Oliver and this family run business, working safely, diligently and with an attention to detail and work ethic rarely encountered these days!"
Richard Owens - Golf & Technical Turf Manager, Tillers Turf
"We recently used this company and couldn’t be happier with the service. They were incredibly quick to respond and kept us informed throughout the whole process. The team did an excellent job, worked efficiently, and left the site spotless and tidy when they finished. It’s rare to find such professional and reliable service these days. We would highly recommend them to anyone looking for quality workmanship and great customer service. Thank you for a fantastic job!"
Carl Parkin - Director Parkin Contractors Ltd
"Oliver Brown Limited consistently delivers exceptional results. Their attention to detail, commitment to quality and practical approach set them apart. The team is approachable, proactive and genuinely focused on achieving the best outcome for their clients. We've been delighted with the service we've received and would happily work with them again."
Guy Le Geyt - Station Director West Burton Energy
"Oliver and his team have undertaken land management operations for me across a wide range of habitats and conditions over the last 10 years+. They have always carried out the work with the highest degree of professionalism, competence and reliability."
David Hennessey - Landscape & Ecology Specialist EDF Energy
"What really sets Oliver Brown Limited apart is its people. The team is exceptionally well trained, professional and committed to delivering the highest standards. Their expertise and attention to detail give clients complete confidence that every job will be handled with care and professionalism."
Andrew Robinson - Training Manager CTA Group
Common questions about seeding and hydroseeding
Planning seeding work can raise practical questions around site access, ground preparation, erosion risk and the best method to use. These FAQs cover the key points to consider before starting a commercial seeding, hydroseeding or erosion control project.
What is the difference between conventional seeding and hydroseeding?
Conventional seeding usually involves preparing the ground and applying seed with machinery such as a seed drill. Hydroseeding applies seed in a hydraulically applied slurry, which can be better suited to slopes, difficult access areas and erosion control projects.
When should hydroseeding be used?
Hydroseeding is often used where conventional seeding is difficult or unsuitable. This may include steep banks, embankments, restoration sites, exposed ground or areas where erosion control is important.
Can you work to a landscape architect’s specification?
Yes. Oliver Brown Ltd can work to an existing seeding specification or provide a comprehensive plan that meets the client’s requirements.
Do you offer wildflower seeding?
Yes. We offer wildflower seeding and wildflower meadow creation, from initial plans and specification through to maintenance requirements.
Can seeding be combined with other land management work?
Yes. Seeding can be delivered alongside clearance, habitat creation, woodland creation, ecological contracting, fencing and ongoing land management.
