Some characteristics
The massive, fibrous Vetiver root system can penetrate up to 2 metres in the first growing season.
Vetiver is drought tolerant.
The Vetiver hedge grows up to 2 metres high and comprises of upright, rigid, dense foliage that slows the runoff which commonly causes erosion. This massive root system is likened to “living nails”, binding the soil together.
The measured maximum resistance of Vetiver roots in the soils is equivalent to one-sixth that of mild steel (75MPa) and improves shear soil strength by as much as 39%.
Closely planted Vetiver grows into dense hedgerows with a deep tough root system that can withstand flooding. A strong permanent hedge, comprising upright, rigid, dense and deeply-rooted clump grass that slows runoff, allowing sediments to stay on the site eventually forming natural terraces.
The fibrous mat of roots, strengthens earthen structures and removes many contaminants from soil and water.
The Vetiver System (VS) recommends planting 5 plants to the metre to form an effective hedge in one growing season.
Once established, a Vetiver hedge will last decades with little to no maintenance.
The Vetiver plant is a non invasive plant. it does not seed, has no stolons or rhizomes.
Other Applications
Vetiver has a wide variety of uses other than soil erosion and has been successfully used around the world for the following:
Water Management – Reducing the silting up of drainage systems, lakes and ponds.
Cleaning Waste Water –
Stabilizing of river banks and drains – Protection of ponds, reservoirs and riverbanks caused by wave action, by strengthening earthen dams.
Bio-remediation –Pollution control from waste and contaminants by absorbing heavy metals. Including rehabilitation and stablisation of mining areas and landfills.
Bio-engineering – Protection of structures such as roads, canals, ponds, building sites, gully rehabilitation and the stabilizing of railway tracks and preventing landslides.
Click Here for the Vetiver International Website.www.vetiver.org/ for all the information you will ever need.
