Spartina alterniflora

General

Smooth cordgrass is an important species to the salt marshes of the East and Gulf coasts, where it acts as an ecosystem engineer. It spreads through rhizome and creates a root mat that stabilizes soils and controls erosion. It also traps and accretes sediment, which filters water and builds the shoreline. It acts as a buffer by absorbing wave energy. It can tolerate soils that have been polluted with petroleum. This species provides food and habitat for many mammal, bird, fish, and invertebrate species. Smooth cordgrass is best planted just above the midpoint between low and high tides, while making sure that at least two thirds of the aboveground vegetation will not be flooded at high tide. In areas with high wave energy, jute matting can be used to hold the plugs in place until they develop a strong root system. Planting on one-foot centers is generally a good way to ensure full coverage, but planting density can be adjusted to suit project goals.