This week we received in the laboratory our European volunteer team, who have been learning about the work we do with seeds and mycorrhizae. As part of their training, they carried out a key activity for ecological restoration: the extraction of mycorrhizal fungi spores to coat seeds.
The process began in Sierra Lujar, where they collected soil and roots of the species we are working with. Once in the laboratory, we sieved the soil to obtain a suitable particle size to make the film coating and crushed the roots for the same purpose. We then use this material to make a coating on the seeds, which facilitates symbiosis between them and the mycorrhizal fungi present in their original ecosystem.
This approach is based on studies by researcher Ellis Gornish and seeks to improve seedling survival in harsh environments. Although we cannot yet quantify exactly how many spores we are incorporating into each seed, we know that this technique can make a difference in the ability of plants to establish and thrive.
We continue to experiment and refine our methods with the goal of restoring forests more effectively and sustainably. Thanks to our volunteer team for their enthusiasm and willingness to learn. Reforestation is a collective effort and every small step forward brings us closer to greener, more resilient landscapes.
