Did you attend an event where MORFO was present and received a seedpod? Are you wondering what plant is hidden inside and how to make it grow? Here are some useful tips on what this plant is and how to take care of it!
What's in my seedpod?
In your seedpod, you'll find 5 elements:
- Crotalaria seeds.
- Substrate made from potting soil.
- A binder.
- Nutrients.
- Microorganisms.
What is a crotalaria plant?
Crotalaria flowers, also known as "rat flowers", belong to a group of plants in the Crotalaria genus. They belong to the Fabaceae family, also known as Leguminosae. These plants are found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world.
Crotalaria flowers are special and have a unique appearance. They are commonly bright yellow, although some species can have red, orange or purple flowers. These flowers grow in clusters or groups along the plant's stems. Crotalaria leaves are generally long and can take different shapes depending on the species.
Why does MORFO use crotalaria in its reforestation projects?
As they have a wide distribution in tropical regions, we plant crotalaria in our reforestation projects in Brazil due to the many benefits this plant brings to its environment.
Crotalaria is known for its ability to absorb atmospheric nitrogen into the soil through symbiosis with specific bacteria present in its roots. This characteristic makes it an interesting plant for soil enrichment.
It also provides good vegetation cover, which could, through a competitive effect, prevent the spread of other invasive species that would block the growth of the trees.
Crotalaria is low-maintenance and fast-growing, as well as being a melliferous plant that attracts game and pollinating insects.
Can it grow in my garden?
Yes !
It can be planted in your garden without any problem, it will make pretty yellow flowers and nourish the soil. Although it will depend on the weather and how quickly you plant it. There's no way of knowing in advance how viable a seed will be. So maybe some won't grow.
Some tips to successfully grow my flower
We've put together a few tips for your crotalaria to be a success:
- Push it a little into the soil so that half the pod is visible.
- Water it at least twice a week. Crotalaria loves water, especially as it grows big.
- With an annual life cycle, crotalaria has a lifespan of around 6 months.
- Once it's dead, don't pull it out! It will bring nutrients to the soil for the plants that will grow after it.
Don't forget to send us pictures of the beautiful plants you've grown!
By the way, why does MORFO put seeds in pods?
Our seeds are encapsulated in seedpods that contain all the biological and nutritional elements needed for long-term reforestation. We then use drones to disperse and plant these seed capsules on site, ensuring effective and sustainable reforestation practices that benefit the environment.
The three main advantages of using seedpods are:
- Seed protection: Seedpods protect seeds from external factors, preserving their viability.
- Early-stage nutrition: Capsules provide essential nutrients to support the early stages of seedling development.
- Restoring degraded soils: As they decompose, our pods mix with the soil over time. Thus, they help to regenerate and revitalize impoverished soils, contributing to the overall recovery of the ecosystem.
Does MORFO plant species other than crotalaria?
Yes, of course!
Our catalog includes over 300 species that have been studied or are currently under investigation. Our team devotes itself daily to research and development in our in-house laboratories and in collaboration with partners, in order to carefully select the best seeds for each reforestation project. To be selected, the species must meet a minimum of 13 criteria, such as being local species, ensuring genetic diversity, having an ecological role in more efficient and rapid regeneration, etc.
To learn more...
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