Fig. 3
Adapted from [21]
Plant cover mitigates soil erosion. The morphology and density of vegetation regulate erosion of soil by wind and water on sloping land. Erosion is most severe on bare soils. Soil coverage by vegetation prevents rainfall from causing erosion. The roots bind onto aggregate soil particles. The benefits of vegetation are maximized under higher plant densities, and by incorporation of crop residues which creates air pockets that can absorb water.