How does Vetiver stabilize slopes and stop soil erosion?

Vetiver is a proven solution to compromised slopes and erosion.  Installed in horizontal rows on the slope contour, Vetiver is a strong, effective, natural barrier.  Its stiff, densely-grouped leaves slow the speed of water and trap soil, sediment, and debris that would otherwise slide off the slope.  Its dense, fibrous roots anchor the soil, hold in moisture, and conserve topsoil and plant nutrients that otherwise would be swept away.  Used worldwide to prevent landslides and erosion, Vetiver retaining walls are effective, economical, and environmentally appealing.

   So, just how strong are Vetiver roots?!!

           Vetiver root = 1/6 mild steel = Lexan!

The term "roots like steel" certainly applies to Vetiver!  The average tensile strength of one root in Vetiver’s massive root system equals   one-sixth mild steel reinforcement (mPA 750), the same strength as    Lexan, GE's tough plastic.     

Vetiver roots improve the shear strength of soil by 30 to 40%, earning Vetiver its reputation as “the green nail.”   (Actually, the security of Vetiver more closely resembles that of a screw but, with a nod toward social propriety, let's just call it a nail.)

How does Vetiver compare to alternatives?

Engineers use a variety of methods to stabilize slopes and stop erosion.  Some solutions are fixed, and others are organic.  Some can be used together.

   

         Rigid systems often fail.               As an organic solution, Vetiver                                                              walls actually relieve stresses!

Conventional engineering uses rigid construction, including rock and reinforced concrete structures, sprayed-on concrete, gabions, steel gates, chain link, and fences. Fixed structures are brittle, expensive to install, and require costly repairs and maintenance.  Often they're ineffective and unsustainable, not to mention unsightly.

Permanent vegetative barriers like Vetiver, on the other hand, provide   an attractive, effective, and affordable alternative.  Planted in rows on  the contour, Vetiver’s dense hedge and mass of fibrous roots create  walls that halt the passage of topsoil and debris, and dramatically slow waterflow.  By anchoring the soil and slowing rainwater velocity, Vetiver reduces rilling and gullying, prevents landslides, stabilizes steep slopes, and halts erosion. 

Can Vetiver save my failing wall?

If your rock, CMU block, or retaining wall is bowing, deteriorating, or otherwise compromised, we can help!  Adding a grass wall of Vetiver behind a failing structure can relieve the water and earthen stress placed on it.  We can help!

*  The total cost to install Vetiver retaining walls depends upon the slope, but it always comes in well below the cost of alternatives!!

+  These prices don't include the cost of obtaining Honolulu building permits for structures taller than 30", architect or engineer stamps, and other associated expenses, including the delays inherent in the permitting system.  Oh, and don't forget to tack on a  premium for a contractor to excavate and install DEEP footings... 

In most cases, Vetiver is the superior organic alternative.  Mature Vetiver hedges keep out weeds and undesirable grasses, and retain moisture and nutrients.  They survive earthquakes, monsoons, hurricanes, grazing, extreme heat, drought, and extended submergence.  Vetiver grows year-round, harbors no pests or diseases, and does not migrate.

Does Vetiver have any other advantages?

Yes!  Unlike other vegetative barriers, Vetiver is not fussy about its host site.  It will politely do its job, growing in saline and sodic conditions, and even in acid sulphate or pure laterite soils.  Since it even survives fire (generating new shoots in its line within days following fire), Vetiver is an effective firebreak in its green state.

Vetiver resists drought, submergence, fire, windstorms, and grazing. It thrives in sunny, damp conditions. It improves the quality of soil by retaining moisture, halting and replenishing nutrient loss, and improving ground water quality.  Vetiver rows are narrow (2’ wide) and do not compete with adjacent crops.

Curious?   Convinced? 

Time for a Consultation???

Call us:  808-536-5444