I'm looking for some guidance relating to establishment of detention basins - particularly how to protect seeds and seedlings prior to development of their root systems.

For some context, I work as a Landscape Architect. I provide the plans and specifications, but have very little control over the awarded contractor or their means and methods. Many of my projects are public or competitively bid so I'm rarely working with a specialized contractor - meaning I have to clearly define the scope for potential bidders long before I know who will be doing the work or exactly what the timing will be.

I'd love guidance on erosion control products, installation methods, timing, implements for soil prep and seeding on slopes (often 3:1 or 4:1) for basins.