How to cultivate Acai in a biological way
How to cultivate Acai in a biological way
The Acai tree (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) Is a species of palm tree native to South America that is mainly cultivated industrially for its fruit and palm heart; Let’s see how to cultivate Acai in a biological way as it is possible in some Italian climates, we see how to cultivate the Acai in a biological way. Its cultivation becomes interesting because on the basis of recent studies it has been shown that the fruit of the Acai positively interferes with the metabolic absorption of body fats, favoring weight loss; furthermore, the Acai fruit has anti-aging properties and is useful in the fight against free radicals, thanks, above all, to the presence of antioxidants. Instead, the alleged anti-tumor properties are to be scientifically evaluated.
For the cultivation of this species in Italy it is necessary to consider that it is possible they are in the coastal areas of the south and where the temperature never drops below zero as this plant is very afraid of frost.
For cultivation it is necessary to start from seeds and this is a first difficulty as these are difficult to find in our country. At maturity this plant can reach about 30 meters in height and, in optimal climatic conditions, it can fructify every six months. Adult Acai plants are very robust and, if grown in a climatically favorable environment (warm temperatures and good percentage humidity) do not require special care or maintenance.
The exposure must obviously be in full sun and suitable soils must be dissolved, not necessarily rich in organic substance, deep and without any possibility of stagnation.
For the plant the seeds of Acai should be placed at a depth of about 4-5 cm, but taking care to cover the seed with a thin layer of soil a bit ‘heavier. After sowing, it will be necessary to water at least every three days or when the soil is dry. Therefore, the soil must always be kept moist.
The germination of the seeds of Acai is slow and should take place within two months; to fly this process we advise you to soak the seed in warm water (34 ° C) and then lightly peel the seed skin.
Given the original habitat of this plant is recommended after the plant will have reached a height of at least 20cm to protect it through a mulch with vegetable straw that will protect the root system from possible decreases in temperature.
Moreover the periodic mulching will allow to bring organic substance to the soil, protect the roots and counter the growth of weeds, especially in the early days.
Another important precaution is to protect young plants (at least within the first 3 years of life) from drafts (especially cold ones) as they are plants that do not like excessive climatic changes.
For the first production it will be necessary to wait normally the third year of life and from that moment on the plant will be much more “autonomous” and therefore the necessary treatments will be less.