Investigation on the Effects of Eco-cover on Unwanted Plant Control, Vetiver Grass (Vetiveria zizanioides) Growth and Soil Properties

Eco-cover is ecological mulch and its application is an eco-friendly and low-cost method to improve soil environment and prevention of unwanted plants. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of eco-cover on unwanted plants, Vetiver grass (Chrysopogon zizanioides) growth and soil Properties. For this purpose, two series of rectangular plot (with and without eco-cover), in three replicates were established. Six seedling of Vetiver grass were planted in each plot and  at the end of the growing season, the number of unwanted plants in each plot was counted and weighed. The effect of eco-cover on the growth of Vetiver grass seedlings was investigated by measuring the mean length of roots, height, and canopy cover of seedlings. Soil properties were investigated using two series of rectangular plot (with and without eco-cover) that stablished in three replicates for six months. Two soil samples were taken from each plot and in the laboratory, some soil physical, chemical and biological properties were determined. Statistical analysis was performed using version 18 of SPSS software and T test method. The results demonstrated that the mean of weight, canopy cover and percentage of survival Vetiver grass individuals has been increased significantly (p<0.05) as a result of eco-cover application. Moreover, a significant decrease (p<0.05) in  the number of unwanted plants  was observed, too. A significant decrease (P<0.05) in the mean of the percentage of saturated humidity and total nitrogen, as well as, a significant increase in the mean of the absorbable phosphorous and exchangeable magnesium of soil were noted (P<0.05).