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Gardening Galore
At this
time of the year, with the rains and heavy storms, areas which are
prone to soil erosion become more apparent and now is the time to do
something about it so that the damage can be controlled, perhaps not
for this year, but at least for next year.
Nature has given us a wonderful plant for this - vetiver grass.
Often called the thin green line against erosion, it certainly is a
thing green line.
Vetiver is planted on the contour or across erosion gullies. The
best way to plant it is to plant it in two staggered rows.
Once it is established, a wall or hedge of up to two metres high can
form.
The plant
catches the soil and water as it erodes down the slope. The water,
being held back, percolates down and soaks the soil.
The root
system is very deep and therefore, does not compete with or affect
other crops. It is also extremely drought resistant. It is also
relatively drought resistant and can be used as a fodder for stock.
This is done by cutting the grass down to a few inches above soil
level. The grass will then shoot up again.
The roots
also yield an oil which, when extracted, is insecticidal.
Vetiver
grass is now available from a supplier in Lusaka.
If any
readers would like us to cover specific subjects in future articles
or if you have any gardening queries, please contact the author of
our monthly column on email at pete@kantemba.com or by phone on 096
747-990. |
March 2004