Runoff from roofs and paved areas can also add to erosion by directing large amounts of water quickly to nearby areas that can't absorb it fast enough. To reduce erosion, protect the soil surface from rain. For example, a cover of plants, such as a well-maintained lawn or other groundcover or a combination of mulch and plants, will effectively protect the soil surface from rain. Plants' roots help lessen erosion, too, by holding soil in place. In some cases, though, you may have to control or redirect the runoff, too, to effectively control erosion.
Bare soil is the most obvious source of erosion.
By mulching or planting bare areas, you can reduce erosion. Seed your vegetable garden with a cover crop such as rye or hairy vetch for the winter. Promptly seed and mulch bare patches in your lawn. Mulch around trees and shrubs, too, will absorb water and direct it to the root systems. Small rills or gullies beginning to show.