Moringa (Moringa oleifera ) grows well in warm regions. This tropical
and subtropical, semi-deciduous tree is hardy in U.S. Department of
Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9 through 10 and flowers and fruits
freely. The tree is slender, grows about 25 feet tall with feathery
foliage and drooping branches, and it often is used as an ornamental
specimen. Moringa tree leaves and roots are edible, and the root is
often used as a substitute for horseradish. It is propagated by seeds,
cuttings and air layering. Moringa does not grow well in heavy soil,
claylike soil or vermiculite . Moringa roots rot in soggy soil.
Vermiculite and Its Uses
Vermiculite is a soilless mix that can be added to a growing medium to
improve drainage. When used for horticultural purposes, it is a clean,
odorless, non-toxic and sterile natural mineral. It does not rot,
deteriorate or mold. Vermiculite is often mixed with composted pine bark
or peat to promote faster root growth and to help anchor developing
roots. Although vermiculite increases water and fertilizer retention of
potting mixes, it is not well-suited for a Moringa tree, which does not
grow well in wet soil.
Soil for Moringa
The
Moringa tree needs a somewhat moisture-retentive growing medium that is
not heavy. The tree will grow in poor soil, sandy soil and even depleted
soil but does not tolerate wet roots. For that reason, loosen heavy
soil by adding perlite, sand, peat moss or coconut coir. Amending the
soil in this way allows the tree's roots to penetrate deeply in the soil
and the soil to drain well.
Moringa's Taproots
Moringa tree has a single taproot that grows straight downward, like a
carrot. The tree also develops small feeder roots , but does not
develop branching roots. Plant a Moringa tree where its root has room to
grow straight downward. If planting the tree in a container, use the
deepest container you can find to allow plenty of room for the taproot.
Moringa Seed
Moringa seeds can be started in
small pots with a loose, organic potting mix as the growing medium.
Place the seeds about 1 inch deep in the soil, and cover them loosely
with the soil; don't compact the soil. Water the pots' growing medium,
and place the pots in a warm place with plenty of sunlight. The seeds
sprout in about two weeks when their soil temperature is 70 to 90
degrees Fahrenheit. Water the soil daily to every other day, keeping it
moist. After the trees reach 8 inches tall, transplant them into the
ground or into larger pots.
