MIT: The earth continues to warm, it is recommended to wear 2 layers of "clothing" for seeds

As the world continues to warm, many dry regions that already have marginal conditions for agriculture will face increasing pressure, which may lead to severe food shortages

The researchers said that this process is being continuously tested in collaboration with researchers in Morocco.

The double-layer coating developed by the team is the direct result of years of research by Marelli and his collaborators, who are committed to developing seed coatings to obtain various benefits

Marelli explained: “We want to create a coating specifically designed to combat drought

This new coating is inspired by the natural coatings on some seeds (such as chia and basil), and it is designed to prevent the seeds from drying out

The second layer, the inner layer of the coating contains preserved microorganisms, called rhizobia, and some nutrients that help them grow

"Our idea is to provide multiple functions for seed coating agents," Marelli said

Researchers say that early trials using soil from a trial farm in Morocco have shown encouraging results, and that these seeds are now being tested in the field

Ultimately, if these coatings prove their value through further testing, then these coatings are simple enough to be applied locally, and even in remote areas in developing countries

Marelli said that the materials required for this coating are easily available and have been frequently used in the food industry

Marelli said that although this process adds a small amount of cost to the seeds themselves, it can also save costs by reducing the need for water and fertilizer

Although the initial test using common beans showed promising results through a variety of measurements, including root quality, stem height, chlorophyll content and other indicators, the research team has not yet developed a new coating From seed to harvested complete crop, this will be the final test of its value

The researchers said that assuming it can indeed improve the harvest under drought conditions, the next step will be to expand the scope of research to other important crop seeds

"This system is very simple and can be applied to any seed," Marelli said

Original Search: Augustine T.