MOSQUITO HAWK
SUNSHINE VETIVER
“Chrysopogon zizanioides”
Mosquito Hawk Farms provides the most ideal climate and conditions for growing Sunshine Vetiver, resulting in a grass that is extremely effective at preventing soil erosion.
The strong, compact, deep root system of Sunshine Vetiver can grow down 15+ feet and slows runoff while dispersing soil sedimentation. Over time a natural berm develops behind the Vetiver hedge. The plants then develop roots off the stalks touching the berm making for an even stronger “hedge against erosion”. Vetiver is disease and pest resistant. Because the crown grows below the soil it is also protected from fire and livestock trampling.
The roots have a reported tensile strength equivalent to 1/16 of mild steel and have been shown to improve soil strength by 45%. We can attest to our Vetiver’s strength and effectiveness because we use it ourselves on the farm for erosion control.
ABOUT OUR FARM
A 100 acre farm with 3+ acres devoted entirely to Sunshine Vetiver.
Mosquito Hawk Grass Farms LLC is a continuation of 4 generations of land stewards just South of Anahuac, Texas. The farm has historically accommodated cattle grazing, oyster processing, mud minnow raising, rice production and high land farming. Cattle graze and Vetiver grows on the present-day farm.
The Vetiver Nursery began in 2007 and the first Vetiver slips sold to the public were in 2015. The farm lies along the Texas Gulf Coast on the east side of Trinity / Galveston Bay. The hot, humid climate combined with plentiful rainfall and sunshine creates perfect growing conditions for “Sunshine Vetiver”.
GROWING VETIVER
Conditions and Care
For maximum potential growth, plant Sunshine Vetiver in full sunlight as it does not tolerate shade well. Vetiver is both drought resistant and able to withstand long periods of flooding. It grows best in sandy loam soils but will grow in almost any soil condition. We’ve tested several acres in Beaumont Clay soil that have acclimated very well.
ABOUT SUNSHINE VETIVER
Origin and Uses
The Sunshine genotype “Chrysopogon zizanioides” is the domesticated variety from South India. Sunshine Vetiver is a triploid which means it has three sets of chromosomes. As triploids are typically sterile, Sunshine Vetiver can only be propagated asexually, making it a non-invasive plant.
The perennial bunch grass has many uses. Our Sunshine Vetiver is sold primarily for its excellent erosion control and use in landscaping, as in hedge rows.
There is a long history of broad uses for the grass. Oil distilled from the roots of the plant is used in products such as perfumes and essential oils, as an insect repellent, and for medicinal purposes. In a study by the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center the oil secreted from Vetiver into soil significantly deterred the underground tunneling of termites.
Vetiver Grass has been used to extract heavy metals, copper, zinc, manganese nitrates and phosphates from the soil through their roots. In some countries Vetiver is burned to heat homes due to the biomass it produces. It is also used for thatching roofs, making baskets, hats, ropes, mats, and as forage for livestock.
