Sapling aids land restoration projects in arid conditions

Planting technology that provides a water reservoir, stimulating deep root growth, and adding helpful fungi and organic compounds to improve soil quality.

As climate change continues to produce unpredictable weather patterns, such as the ongoing dry period in California, planting critical vegetation to combat the problem becomes more difficult in arid soils. Regarding this, we’ve already seen how an Egypt-based company is using ancient technology to aid irrigation, and now another company is taking a more modern, science-based approach.

Netherlands-based Land Life Company has developed the COCOON in order to facilitate sustainable tree plantation in low-quality soils and challenging climates. The tree sapling is planted into the structure, and the wick system drip-feeds the seedling roots drops per day, encouraging the roots to reach the subsurface water table. The COCOON comprises a water reservoir — a large, steady base that provides a slow but constant supply of water via a series of wicks (that will also channel rainwater runoff after the reservoir has run dry) and is made of 100 percent biodegradable material containing nutrients that will enrich the soil — as well as a tree shelter designed to protect the plant from outside harm, putting off herbivores and preventing damage from the sun and wind. Additionally, a tablet of Mycorrhizal fungi can be placed underneath the COOCON to stimulate a symbiotic relationship with the soil, helping seedlings to extract more water and nutrients from the soil. Available for USD 9 per device, the COCOON planting solution provides a cost-effective approach to tree plantation, with Land Life Company offering consultation with buyers to determine the most suitable species, planting times and project coordination for particular land restoration projects.

Alongside other projects we’ve seen, such as a forest city being designed in China, we’re seeing that steps are being taken to offset the effects of future climate change and urban sprawl — what other projects could help?