As the dry summer is approaching, it is time to cut some of the grasses in this area. This way we harvest new biomass to protect the soil.

With the harsh summer conditions starting up, with intens sun and wind, it is crucial that we protect the soil in our project areas. We do this by adding thick layers of biomass to the planting lines.

Red wiggler worms are well known for their decomposing qualities. They close cycles in the ecosystem by eating leftovers and pooping out amazing fertilizers.

We collected biomass and made it into small particals. Then we spread it on top of the soil in the planting lines.

Eucalypt trees have a very bad image, and for a good reason. Throughout whole Portugal this Australian tree is grown in monocultures to produce paper. But it can be a friend if you use it in the right way.

We introduced new species to the new planting rows in the forest system. We work as much as possible with natural stratification and natural succession.

The winter season creates potential for planting new life. With the scarce rain, the landscape can breathe again after the long dry spell and is opening up for new steps in her cycles of natural succession.

Planting trees is one thing- but keeping them alive in the dry circumstances of Southern Portugal is another challenge. This is why we use various methods to protect the (soil around the) trees.

We dug big holes and filled them with rich soil and nutrients so the root systems of the trees we plant can develop well. But we don't only use these spots for the trees: we create biodiverse minigarden around them!

We planted different tree, bush and plant species to increase biodiversity and develop this inclinated area into a reforestation zone.

We adopted many Prickly Pear cactuses from a neighbour who is redesigning her garden. She thought we might want them and she was very right. This cactus is very useful in this region. Read why below!

We dug a lot of holes with a group of people during the last Friday intervention. This way we prepare for the trees that we will soon receive through Gone West.

Homeschooling is a great opportunity to take the kids outside and teach them how to plant trees. They loved it, named the trees and made an instruction video for their classmates to explain what trees need feel at home and develop in their new spot.

Biochar can be a big help in increasing soil fertility, especially in acidic soils. We experimented to produce biochar in an open fire.

Bendush (8) "I made a project in school called 'trees that matter'. I collected seeds, put them in pots and wrote the names of the trees on it. And then I want to plant the trees to help nature."

We implemented ideas from agroforestry/ syntropic farming today in a practical experiment. The underlaying thought is to create collaborations with different plants and to create successional cycles that all fulfill their purpose.