We have created a laboratory for the study of seed biotechnology in the town of Pitres (Alpujarra Granada, Spain). In the methodology we are creating, we combine the observation of natural regeneration processes with academic knowledge of seed technologies (priming & pelleting).
Priming treatments ensure that seeds that would take years to germinate can do so with a single rain, something essential in arid areas. This is achieved by eliminating dormancy and subjecting the seeds to different environmental conditions.
Pelleting is based on coating the seeds with various materials to introduce nutrients, repellents, bacteria/mycorrhizal fungi, water retainers, etc. This is necessary for any surface planting, otherwise establishment rates are too low.
Mycorrhizal fungal spores can be included in the pelleting process. So that the plant and the fungus can start their symbiotic relationship as soon as possible. This increases the growth vigor of the plant and its resistance.
In this manual we present a methodology to help Mediterranean restoration projects to find solutions to make possible the direct seeding of acorns with guarantees and success. We also provide our experience in a series of aspects that we consider essential for the implementation of a restoration project by small and medium organizations.
The Seed Pelleting Machine (SPM), is a device created under the DIY (Do It Yourself) and Open Source philosophy to enable seed pelleting on a small to medium scale.
The current study deals with the study of priming treatments of 10 forest species from south-eastern Spain: juniperus phoenicea, pinus halepensis, arbutus unedo, digital obscura, daphne gnidium, genista umbellata, genista spartioides, lavandula stoechas, lavandula latifolia and rumex scutatus.