Preliminary results of Moringa oleifera Lam. grown in a semi-arid Mediterranean environment in a climate change scenario

Abstract

Introduction: Climate change, driven by greenhouse gas emissions, is altering global temperature and precipitation patterns, particularly affecting Mediterranean regions. Adaptation strategies, such as introducing low-input and resilient crops, are essential. Moringa oleifera Lam., a drought-tolerant tree native to north-west India, has emerged as a promising candidate due to its high nutritional value, rapid growth, and adaptability to arid environments. Methods: This study evaluated the effects of planting methods and spacing on the growth and leaf nutrient composition of M. oleifera in Sicily (southern Italy), a semiarid Mediterranean environment. The experiment was conducted over two growing seasons (2021–2022). In 2021, four treatment plots were tested: two planting methods (seeding, S; transplanting, T) and two spacings (50 cm and 100 cm). In 2022, based on 2021 results, two plots were maintained to assess spacing effects (50 and 100 cm) under transplanting. Results: Transplanted plants (T) showed higher values than seeded (S) in plant height and biomass production. The T50 treatment reached the highest leaf biomass (15 kg ha−1) and nutrient accumulation. Total nitrogen content was 27 kg ha−1 in 2021 and 125 kg ha−1 in 2022 in T50. Similar trends were observed for phosphorus, calcium, potassium, and magnesium concentrations. Discussion: Results demonstrate that M. oleifera maximizes growth and nutrient uptake when transplanted at 50 cm spacing. This cultivation approach supports its potential as a viable alternative crop in semiarid Mediterranean systems, promoting agricultural diversification and resilience for farmers.