Effect of Filament Type and Biochemical Composition of Lignocellulose Fiber in Vegetation Growth in Early Plant Establishment Period

Abstract

Early plant establishment period for bioengineered structure is important to assess its soil erosion protection and green restoration capability. The use of lignocellulose-based fibers has been recently explored for enhancing vegetation growth. Moreover, the soil–lignocellulose fiber composite has been reported to enhance the water retention and reduce erosion potential. However, the effects of fiber type, i.e., filament type and biochemical composition has not been explored. The objective of the study aims to explore these effects on early plant establishment period by incorporating two contrasting lignocellulose fibers–coir and water hyacinth. Soil column of bare soil and soil–fiber composite compacted at 0.9MDD were prepared and instrumented for measurement of suction and moisture content. An indigenous grass species Axonopus Compressus was transplanted and the growth parameter was monitored for a period of 60 days under greenhouse condition. The results indicated that monofilament fiber such as WH is better suited as a lignocellulose fiber for grass growth in compacted soil based on its water retention, easy root propagation and resistance to desiccation cracking.