Pilot project – germination study of species with low propagation rate for increasing biodiversity available for ecological restoration projects

Project Status: Completed 2025

Funded by: The Global Botanic Garden Fund

Project Partner: Jardim Botânico Araribá

Introduction

This is a pilot project focused on improving germination and propagation of rare, endangered plant species that are typically neglected due to cost, scarcity, and low success rates. The species focus of this project is Ocotea odorifera. 

Project Goals

The first part of this project was to search, identify and geo-reference mother trees for phenological monitoring and seed collection. From the collected seeds, dormancy breaking tests would be conducted and practical research carried out with various in vitro and in vivo germination methods, to evaluate the best approach for development and survival. The final goal was to create a germination protocol for Ocotea odorifera. The protocol will serve as a complete guide to improve propagation techniques and ensure successful cultivation.

Key Achievements

Seeds from mapped parent trees were collected and stored for germination studies and sharing with seed banks.  The study tested multiple dormancy-breaking methods and substrates, tracking seedling growth and germination both in nurseries and in vitro.

A propagation protocol was created and all results were compiled into a research article. These results will be published and shared with botanical gardens and conservation institutions to support restoration efforts involving the species.