Blog #3.12 Argan Tree Cultivation Techniques at INRA Research Center
Our team at INRA Research Center with Dr. Bouharroud
The UC Merced/USF team visited the Centre Régional de la Recherche Agronomique Agadir, part of the Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA). Dr. Rachid Bouharroud, the director, guided our tour, showing us the research farms where he and his team conduct various agricultural experiments.
We first started our visit by looking at the greenhouses where we learned that in argan cultivation, grafting is preferred over seed planting because seeds’ diversity can cause varying outcomes. Grafting guarantees that each sprout is genetically identical to the parent plant, maintaining the quality and productivity of the orchard. To improve the success rate of grafting, plastic bags are used to cover each sprout, increasing humidity around the graft. Additionally, a fog system in the greenhouse maintains high humidity levels, necessary for the grafting process. Greenhouses, which occupy 5 hectares of the farm and support around a thousand trees, are equipped with automatic screens on the ceiling that adjust according to sunlight levels. The ideal sunlight exposure is at least 80%.
INRA Research Center greenhouse
Dr. Bouharroud explained that stem-cuttings have shown to produce better results for argan trees compared to grafting. This method involves planting a piece of an argan tree into nutrient-rich soil, where it takes about two months to produce roots. The soil is a mix of forest soil and peat, providing the necessary nutrients. Once the sprouts have rooted, they are watered by hand and will take 1-2 years before they are ready to be planted in the field. This method, although time-consuming, offers a higher success rate compared to grafting. Once in the orchards, the trees are planted with a 10 x 10 meter spacing.
As we walked along the farm, we noticed other plants growing with the argan trees. To maximize land use and provide additional income for the experimental farm, different herbs like thyme, citronella, and lemongrass are planted between the rows of argan trees. Lavender seems to be the best match because the argan trees grow larger and stronger with it. Banana plants have also been introduced to the operations as an additional income source. Cross-pollination among these plants is crucial for genetic diversity, ensuring the resilience of the species.
Tea with INRA staff after our visit
-By Diane Martinez, UC-Merced Engineering and Isabella Guzaldo, USF Engineering
