Select the Proper Material

• Stream- and riverbanks have deeply varied moisture levels, and are subject to rapid changes. They may be inundated with water during a rainy spring and starving for moisture during the hot summer. They have to be able to tolerate these changes, and they do so by developing deep, fibrous root systems that will fasten them securely to the bank during a flood and let them search for water during a drought. When you contact your local authorities, ask them for recommended natives specific to your area.
  
  

Common Native Perennials for Streambank Planting

• Panicum virgatum (switchgrass) and Andropogon gerardii (big bluestem) are two grasses that will grow well along the middle to top edge of your steam. Iris virginica (blue flag iris) is a purple Iris that anchors itself into the bank and helps remove excess nitrogen from the water. Plant Iris just above the water line to the top of the bank. Juncus effusus (juncus) is also helpful with removing pollutants. Juncus can be planted from the water's edge to just above the water line. Scripus varieties (bullrush) are suited to being at or below the water line. Saggitaria latifolia is commonly called arrowhead due to its arrow-shaped leaves; it bears a charming little white flower. It also prefers to be in the water. Saururus cernuus is commonly called lizard's tail. It has a white arching flower and will grow from the riverbank into the stream.
  
  

Common Native Trees for Streambank Planting

• Many varieties of willows will thrive along your stream. Salix discolor, nigra, sericea and interior will all tolerate moderate drying to wet conditions. There are two varieties of dogwoods for bank stablization: Cornus amomum and stolonifera have tiny white flowers and red stems. Cephalanthus occidentalis (buttonbush) bears round light yellow flowers that form ornamental seeds with excellent fall colors. It will perform well with medium moisture, from the middle of your bank down. Sambucus canadensis (elderberry) has large fragrant white flowers followed by black berries. It does best within a few feet of the water's edge. Physocarpus opulifolius (ninebark) has striped bark and large clusters of roselike flowers. It can tolerate both medium dry and wet conditions and is therefore a good candidate for both the top and the toe of the bank.
  
  

Proper Planting Techniques for Steambank Planting

• When planting alongside a river or stream, minimize soil disturbance as much as possible. Use plants in 1 gallon or smaller containers to maintain the integrity of the bank. If you have a strong slope or small amounts of existing erosion, use a biodegradable erosion control blanket, and plant into it. Strong erosion will be made worse by planting attempts, and a professional should be consulted. If possible, delay your planting until the plants are dormant and use the live staking method. Live staking means cutting dormant branches of plants, like those named in the previous sections, and sticking them directly into the ground. They will have time to develop a root system of their own before the leaves come out.