On the farms Terra das Freiras and Grupo de São Mateus, both located in the Natura 2000 Site of Community Importance of Monfurado in Montemor-o-Novo, the technical actions started with the collection of soil samples. The Alentejo soils are mostly acidic and toxic for plant growth, so it was decided to apply dolomitic limestone to correct the acidity of the soil.
After confirming the acidity of the soils through laboratory analyses, the lime was applied to the two farms and the results are expected next spring.
In the autumn of 2022, the Botany Laboratory of the University of Évora collected fruits and seeds of different plant species, which were germinated in the greenhouse and will be planted this year on the already fenced islands within the Montado, with the aim of increasing the biodiversity of the area.
In addition, last year, cork oak acorns were collected and selected to be planted in the project areas, which should increase the resilience of the montado.
The islands within the montado are important for biodiversity, as they provide shelter and food for various animals.
We will keep you informed about future actions in the pilot farms.
Photos by: MED and ECOHABITAT
