Collected a bunch of vetiver earlier today for use in our landscape. Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanoides) is a densely tufted, perennial clump grass that forms narrow, dense hedges when planted along the contours of sloping land, slowing down run-off and helping the water soak into the soil rather than washing off the slope. The stiff foliage also blocks the passage of soil and debris which gradually builds up a soil terrace. Because vetiver roots grow vertically for at least three metres, not only do they bind the soil, but they do not compete with neighbouring crops for water and nutrients, unlike agroforestry alley cropping systems. Vetiver can be planted along the edge of existing terraces to reinforce the banks against collapse. The oil in vetiver roots also appears to be a deterrent to burrowing rats. An annual trim is all that is needed to keep a vetiver hedge in good shape. It is important to keep the grass from flowering otherwise the stem will die back, which inhibits tillering and slows the growth of the clump. The cut material makes excellent mulch for our young trees. Most varieties of vetiver are naturally sterile hybrids and do not set seed, nor does vetiver produce stolons, so there is no danger of the grass spreading from where it is planted. Propagation could not be simpler as you can see. Large clumps are split up to give around five to six slips which may be planted bare rooted. I even planted some using one of our bigger airpots as an experiment. The root is what’s used in oil production so using an air pruning pot should not only maximize root production but will also make it a million times easier to harvest. ・・・ #growninhaiti #airpot #vetiver #vetiveriazizanoides #grass #soilerosion #agroforestry #permaculture #landscapemanagement #growth #laboroflove #foodforest #sustainablefoodsystems #sustainableliving #ecological #natural #organic https://www.instagram.com/p/CBxwpVKFV3w/?igshid=9hgbjq8przbc
