[Objective] Analysis of the characteristics of runoff and sediment yield under different rainfall patterns, and its responses under different vegetation cover types and vegetation coverage was conducted to provide a theoretical basis for studying the dynamic characteristics of runoff and sediment yield of yellow soil slopes in karst areas.[Methods] Based on field measurements from 2014-2018 in Yangjichong watershed (Longli County, Qiannan Prefecture, Guizhou Province), and based on the K-means classification method, the rainfall types in the study area were divided into four categories, and the correlation analysis, regression model, and exponential function analysis of each indicator were carried out.[Results] Different rainfall types had diverse effects on sediment yield in the study area, and significant differences existed between rainfall characteristics on sediment yield under different vegetation cover types. The A-type rainfall pattern (low-frequency rainfall events with extremely high intensity, extremely high amounts and medium duration) was more likely to cause erosion. There was significant correlation between runoff yield and sediment yield on slopes, soil and water conservation effect in an economic fruit forest. The B-type rainfall (high-frequency rainfall events with high intensity, medium amounts and short duration) was the main rainfall type in this region. Among the four rainfall types, the soil and water conservation effect of mixed forest was the best, compared with other vegetation cover types. Sediment yield was positively correlated with rainfall intensity and runoff depth, and negatively correlated with vegetation coverage. The sediment yield was strongly influenced by runoff depth, followed by average rainfall intensity and vegetation coverage. When vegetation coverage reached about 80%, the reduction effect on runoff and sediment was stable.[Conclusion] Under certain rainfall, vegetation is the key factor affecting slope sediment yield. For a slope of yellow soil in karst areas, increasing surface coverage is not only the basis for reducing sediment yield, but also an important measure to prevent soil erosion.