Peru reforestation project update: The plants are in!

Supported by Sainsbury’s our latest forest and biodiversity restoration project has reintroduced 3,000 native plants to restore the former ecosystem of the area, using the tiny relicts of original forest as a reference.

Like the entire Peruvian coast, the Nazca region where we grow asparagus is a desert area. Until recent decades some areas were home to dry forest ecosystems. However historical development, alongside fuel and timber demands led to the removal of vegetation leading to loss of biodiversity, soil health and water resources.

As these arid adapted species mixes form microclimates and access deep water resources, after 3-4 years of root and habitat establishment, irrigation will only be needed twice a year, mirroring the natural water cycle in the region. This is thanks to moisture from the surrounding fields, deep groundwater, combined with nighttime dew and seasonal fog capture, ultimately making this restoration project self-sustaining.

A huge thank you to the team at Huarango Nature (founded by Kew) for bringing the 3.2 hectare restoration corridor at our Ginobeto Farm to life!