Vetiver hedges help control water runoff by slowing it down and spreading it evenly. This stops soil from washing away and keeps nutrients in place. For the hedge to grow well, plant the vetiver slips close together—about 10 to 15 cm apart.
Fertilizer and Manure
Giving fertilizer or manure to the young vetiver plants helps them grow faster. Use 100 kg of farmyard manure (FYM) for every 100 meters of hedge. If FYM isn’t available, use 10 kg of DAP fertilizer instead.
- FYM holds water in the soil, helping the plants grow better.
- Add FYM or DAP to the nursery soil before planting for even better results.
- Once the hedge is established, you don’t need to add fertilizer regularly.
Watering Tips
- Water the slips right after planting unless rain is coming soon.
- Keep the soil moist for 2–3 weeks to help the plants grow roots.
- If planting during dry weather, water every 10 days until the rainy season starts.
How to Space Vetiver Hedges
The space between hedges depends on the slope of your land. If the slope is steep, plant hedges closer together. A 2-meter vertical gap works well for most slopes.
| Slope (°) | Slope (%) | Surface Run (meters) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1.7 | 57.3 |
| 10 | 17.6 | 5.8 |
| 20 | 36.4 | 3.0 |
| 30 | 57.7 | 2.0 |
| 40 | 84.0 | 1.6 |
| 45 | 100.0 | 1.4 |
Example: For a 20% slope, multiply the surface run (3.0) by 2 meters. So, your hedgerows should be 6 meters apart.
Keep Your Hedge Healthy
- Temperature: Water enough so the soil stays moist but not too wet.
- Placement: Choose a spot for the hedge that is downwind from your home to avoid bad smells.
- Maintenance: Once the hedge grows well, it won’t need much fertilizer or care.
Using vetiver hedges helps control soil erosion, improves water use, and reduces the need for extra work. With proper planting and care, these hedges will last a long time and keep your land healthy.
