Moringa, the famous “miracle tree,” has many nutritional and medicinal properties and is one of the most efficient and influential plants out there. Even though it grows best in tropical and sub-tropical regions, people in many other climates can also enjoy the benefits of growing moringa in their own home with a few simple tricks.
n this article we will show you how you can grow your own moringa tree:
Step 1. Purchase some Moringa seeds from the local sources
There are several types, but these two types: Moringa Stenopetala and Moringa oleifera seeds can be found easily.
1.If you want to have a fast-growing tree which will bear blossoms, leaves and seed pods the first year, then you need to choose Moringa Oleifera.
2. If you prefer to have a fast-growing tree with bigger leaves, then you should choose Moringa Stenopetala.
Step 2. Choose a place to grow your Moringa tree.
You should keep in mind that the Moringa trees grow about 15 feet (4.6 m) in average, but don’t forget the fact that they can even grow over 20 feet (6.1 m) in the first year.Since its branches may grow up to 3-4 feet wide, you can easily choose the place. In order to survive Moringa trees need a sunlight,water and warm place. Make sure you provide the best place for them.
Step 3. Get the best organic potting soil that you can find.
You need to remember that Moringa trees don’t want their roots getting wet. That`s why you should grow them in poor soil, depleted or even sandy soil.Also if it is necessary , you can add some potting soil mixture or simply add some coconut coir, sand or peat moss in any kind of soil you have in order to loosen it. In this way your Moringa tree will be able to go deeper and drain well. It`s got one root which goes straight down like a carrot and it certainly need more space for that. Make sure you find the deepest place for it. You can grow the Moringa tree in rows, as a solitary tree or as a hedge.
Step 4. Plant the Moringa seeds in a hole, cover with soil and tamp it.
Follow the growth of your planted tree and remember the date when you have planted the seeds.You should pour some water to the soil on the place where you planted the seeds and you need to water them every day until you notice the seedlings grow out of the soil. As soon as they have sprouted, you can water them every second day. And when they become about 18 inches (45.7 cm) tall,you should water them once a week.
EXTRA TIPS:
1.When grown in orchards, the tree should be cut back once in 1-2 years in order for it to produce more leaves and pods and to be kept in the optimal size.
2.Due to the fact that it comes from tropical areas, this plant doesn’t bear temperatures below the zero or constant frosts. Remember this before you decide whether the Moringa tree will succeed in your area. Even though there are ways to protect it from low temperatures, such as covering it, it is not a guarantee.
3.The Moringa Tree needs a lot of sun, and you also should protect it from strong winds. Also if you plant it in a very hot area, you need water it every day (although you must make conditions for the water to drain away). Even if you don’t water it every day, you should keep an eye on it because the plant will show signs on its own that it needs water.
