A cost effective, efficient, and easy to implement biodegradable woven composite burlap silt fences with stabilizing fins having a bury depth indicator. The silt fence comprises plurality of spaced stakes; and a burlap geotextile with a weight greater than 15 oz per square yard and less than 50 oz per square yard comprising one of i) a single layer burlap material and ii) a composite burlap material having multiple burlap layers. A trenchless method of installation includes using an apron on a lower portion of the geotextile and driving the plurality of spaced wooded or metal stakes into the ground until the integral ground engaging apron is flush with the ground; and staking the ground engaging apron to the ground with staking elements.