VI, VEGETATION ESTABLISHMENT 
1. General. 
A survey of natural-occurring plant species along the upper Texas 
gulf coast as well as a literature survey resulted in the selection of 
12 plant species for testing in this study (Table 2). These species 
appeared to possess the characteristics necessary for establishment and 
reproduction in the vigorous environment of East Bay. Establishment 
would provide for stabilization of the eroding clay shoreline. 
Giant reed,an introduced species, has characteristics desired for 
erosion control. These include vegetative as well as sexual repro- 
duction, rapid establishment, rapid growth, and an extensive root 
system that effectively holds soil against water erosion. 
Black mangrove is a native tree that occurs along the shoreline 
from Texas to Florida. 
Saltgrass is a low growing rhizomatous grass occurring along most 
shorelines of the world. This species propagates vegetatively and once 
established forms a protective mat over the soil surface. The rhizomes 
are effective in reducing soil erosion. In addition to vegetative re- 
production, saltgrass produces seed throughout the growing season. 
Needlegrass, a perennial rush, reproduces by short rhizomes and 
seed. It is widespread along the upper Texas gulf coast in fine tex- 
tured soil. This species has a bunch growth form and produces an 
extensive root system that should retard water erosion. 
Common reed is a tall perennial grass with a creeping rootstock. 
This species successfully reproduces from rhizomes as well as from 
seed. The extensive rhizome and root systems are effective soil 
binders. Common reed is common along the gulf coast. 
American bulrush, a perennial bulrush, has wide distribution along 
the gulf as well as inland. This species reproduces both vegetatively 
and sexually and established plants are effective soil binders. In 
areas of establishment, this species forms a dense cover aboveground 
and an extensive root system in the upper soil layers. 
Olney bulrush is a perennial bulrush of widespread distribution in 
salt marsh areas along the gulf and throughout North America. This 
species has most of the characteristics of American bulrush. 
Saltmarsh bulrush (Setrpus robustus) is a perennial bulrush that 
frequently occurs in salt marshes of the upper Texas gulf coast. 
Characteristics of this species for reproduction, establishment, and 
erosion control are similar to those reported for American bulrush. 
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