Vetiver response to the application of limestone and phosphorus in three classes of soils

Vetiver grass has been used to control erosion, especially in areas with severe degradation in the upper soil layers and when the subsurface horizons are exposed on the ground surface. Soil management can influence the efficiency of nutrient uptake and plant growth. This study aimed to evaluate the yield of vetiver plants in response to lime and phosphorus. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse, using samples from subsurface horizons of a Cambisol, an Oxisol and an Ultisol. The experiment was conducted in a randomized block design with three replications in a factorial 2 x 5 scheme, with two doses of lime (0 t ha^-1 and recommended dose to raise the base saturation to 60%) and five doses of P (0, 50, 100, 200, 400 mg dm^-3). After incubation with limestone, doses of phosphorus were applied and vetiver was planted. At 168 days after planting, the plants were harvested, separating the shoots and roots. Liming and application of phosphorus significantly increased tillering and dry matter accumulation of vetiver grass. Liming increased the efficiency of phosphorus fertilization and hence favored the establishment of vetiver, confirming the need of using these practices for faster recovery of degraded soils.

Chrysopogon zizanioides ; dry matter; liming; subsurface horizon; erosion