Journal of Rangeland

Vetiver grass (Chrysopogon zizanioides) is an exotic multifunctional plant species that has been experimentally planted in Kechik station, Maraveh tappeh, northern Iran. Evaluating the possible negative impacts of introduced species on environment is required to prevent vast ecological hazards. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of this species on some soil physical and chemical characteristics. Soil samples from 0-15 and 15-30 cm depth (totally 20 soil samples) were collected from Vetiver grass planted site and control site. Soil texture, bulk density, porosity, saturated humidity, aggregate stability, EC, pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen, lime, absorbable phosphorous, exchangeable sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium were measured. According to the results, soil aggregate stability and lime content of soil were decreased significantly after six years from the establishment of Vetiver (p > 0:05), but soil organic carbon, absorbable phosphorous, exchangeable sodium and potassium were increased significantly. Although carbon, phosphorus and potassium contents of soil were increased as a result of Vetiver grass cultivation, extensive cultivation of this plant in the study area should be treated with caution. More research is required to evaluate the effects of this introduced species on native species in this region.