How to Grow Moringa from Seed? Moringa, also known as the drumstick tree, horseradish tree, or ben oil tree, is endemic to India and Bangladesh’s Himalayan foothills. Moringa plants are also known as the “wonder tree” because they have long been used and adored in their native habitat for their incredible nutritional and therapeutic capabilities.
While moringa is native to the tropical and subtropical temperatures of South Asia, it adapts well to growing in various parts of the world as long as it is sheltered from cold weather and hard frosts. Learn how to grow these miraculous trees at home and reap the benefits of moringa all year long. It is one among the fastest growing trees, growing at least 12-15 feet every year. Plant the tree in the spring to benefit from the entire growing season.
Types of Moringa
The Moringa family includes around 13 species, all of which can be utilised for food or medicine. Most other species, with the exception of Moringa oleifera, are not frequently cultivated outside of their natural habitats.
How to Grow Moringa from Seed?
Moringa plants develop quickly from seeds. Moringa seeds have no dormancy period and should be planted as soon as possible after being obtained from the tree. For up to a year, fresh seeds retain great germination rates.
Moringa seeds are best sown directly into the garden because transplanting them is difficult due to the plant’s extensive taproot. Backfill with compost and soil after digging a hole about a foot deep and broad to loosen the soil. Plant 3 to 5 seeds in each hole, about 1/2 inch deep and 2 inches apart. Fill up the gaps with soil and water. Maintain a wet but not saturated soil. Thin seedlings when they are 4-6 inches tall, preserving the healthiest plant and eliminating the others.
If you wish to start seeds indoors to shelter them from harsh weather, cold temperatures, or wildlife while they grow, choose a deep container. Soak the seeds in water overnight to hasten germination. Plant the seeds 1-inch deep in a deep container filled with seed-starting soil. Cover with the mixture and water thoroughly.
Bottom heat hastens germination, which should take three to fourteen days. Before transplanting the plant outside, it should be hardened off. Choose a site with plenty of sunlight and dig a hole somewhat larger than the seedling’s rootball. Backfill the hole with a mixture of soil, sand, and compost after inserting the seedling with the top of the rootball flush with the soil line. Water the newly planted seedling lightly after planting, taking care not to overwater.
Potting and Repotting to Grow Moringa from Seed
Moringa plants must be cultivated in pots unless they can be exposed to tropical or subtropical temperatures all year. Moringa plants growing in containers can be readily moved indoors during the winter to escape freezing weather.
While young plants can be kept in 6- to 7-inch pots, they should be transplanted to larger pots as they grow due to the plants’ deep taproot structure. Use a 30-inch container or larger to house your moringa. Make sure to transplant the plant before it becomes rootbound, or it will be extremely difficult to remove.
Overwintering to Grow Moringa from Seed
There are no extra precautions to take when growing outdoor moringa trees in hot climates. If your trees are kept in pots, bring them inside well before the first frost and keep them in a sunny, warm position throughout the winter.
Pests and Plant Diseases
Fortunately, moringa plants are resistant to a wide range of pests and illnesses; nonetheless, termites can still be a problem with mature moringa trees. Mulching at the base of the tree with castor oil plant leaves, mahogany chips, tephrosia leaves, or Persian lilac leaves can aid if termites are present. Moringa attracts armyworms, cutworms, stem borers, aphids, and fruit flies.
Common Problems With Moringa
1. Root Rot
By far the most common problem with moringa trees. A heavy rain could saturate the soil and cause the tree to die from root rot in a matter of days if it is not planted in soil that drains at a rate of at least one inch per hour. Once root rot is discovered, it is likely too late to save the plant; therefore, the best course of action is to ensure proper soil drainage when the tree is first planted.
2. Fruit or Twig Rot
While less prevalent than root rot, fruit and/or twig rot occurs when a fungus turns the seed pods or twigs a brownish colour. A copper-based fungicide can be used to treat both diseases.
3. Canker
Some forms of canker can appear on moringa trunks and branches, which is considerably less common. If you discover this condition, which appears as a wound on the tree, trim off any injured limbs or branches. Also, if canker does emerge, avoid pruning your moringa too heavily during rainy seasons, since this may assist bacteria spread to other sections of the tree.
Also Read: How to Grow Avocado from Seeds?
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