How do plants lessen soil erosion especially during heavy rains?

Answer 1

Plants, especially trees, tie the soil together with their roots, greatly slowing down soil erosion. This is particularly important on hills. With good tree coverage, the high ground acts as a watershed, storing rain water and releasing it at a sensible rate to the plains below. Without the vegetation coverage, soil is quickly washed away, and heavy rain pours straight down the hillsides causing flash floods.