How to Grow Moringa Tree - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Moringa tree is a fast-growing, drought-resistant tree that can reach up to 20 feet in height. The leaves, pods, flowers, and seeds of the tree are all edible and are rich in nutrients.

How to Grow Moringa Tree - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

  • Drumstick tree
  • Horseradish tree
  • West Indian horsewood
  • Ben oil tree
  • Tree of life

Good to Know

  • Moringa trees are native to Africa and Asia.
  • Moringa trees are also known as the "miracle tree" due to their many health benefits.
  • Moringa leaves are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
  • Moringa leaves can be eaten fresh, cooked, or dried.
  • Moringa leaves can be used to make tea, juice, or powder.
  • Moringa leaves powder can be used as a dietary supplement.
  • Moringa oil can be used for cooking or as a skin moisturizer.
  • Moringa trees are easy to grow and require little water.
  • Moringa trees can grow up to 30 feet tall.
  • Moringa trees are a sustainable source of food and medicine.

Related plant:
Moringa Plant

How to Grow

  1. For moringa tree, first step is to choose appropriate site and soil. Moringa tree can be grown in any type of soil but the ideal soil is the one which is deep, friable, well drained and rich in organic matter. The tree does not tolerate waterlogged conditions.
  2. Second step is to prepare the land by ploughing and leveling.
  3. After that, take moringa seeds and soak them overnight in water.
  4. Then, sow the seeds in seed beds or pots filled with well-drained sandy loam soil.
  5. Keep the seed beds or pots moist by watering regularly.
  6. Once the seedlings are 3-4 weeks old, transplant them into main field at a spacing of 10-12 m between rows and 3-4 m between plants.
  7. Apply organic manure and water the plants regularly.
  8. Moringa tree starts bearing flowers and fruits within 2-3 years of planting.
  9. Harvest the fruits when they are fully ripe and green in color.
  10. The leaves can be harvested any time after the plant reaches 6-8 weeks old.

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, The moringa tree grows in a wide range of soils, but it prefers a deep, well-drained loamy soil. It is adaptable to both acid and alkaline soils, but it cannot tolerate waterlogged conditions. The tree is drought-resistant and can be grown in semi-arid regions.

Light requirement

Just like other trees, the moringa tree needs sunlight to grow and be healthy. It is best to plant the tree in an area where it will get at least six hours of sunlight each day. If the tree does not get enough sunlight, it will not grow as well and may not produce as many leaves.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature condition is perfect for the growth of moringa tree. The tree grows best in warm climates but can also tolerate some cool temperatures. It is important to keep the tree in an area where it will not experience extreme cold or heat.

Humidity Level

Ideal humidity condition for this plant are around 70%. The leaves of the moringa tree are very sensitive to water and will start to droop if the humidity is too low. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will start to turn yellow and fall off.

The Fertilizer

Mentioning fertilizer, this plant is not a heavy feeder. It does best with a light application of a balanced fertilizer like 8-8-8. You can work this into the soil around the tree when you first plant it, and then again every few months during the growing season. Just be sure not to overdo it, as too much fertilizer can actually harm the tree. As for the roots, they are relatively shallow and need to be kept moist. Be sure to water your moringa tree regularly, especially during dry spells. Mulching around the base of the tree will help to keep the roots cool and moist.

Light requirement

Pruning is a vital part of keeping a moringa tree healthy and promoting new growth. Depending on the season, you may need to prune your tree more or less frequently. However, it's generally a good idea to prune your tree every few months. When pruning your moringa tree, be sure to remove any dead or dying branches. Cut these branches back to the main trunk of the tree. You should also trim any branches that are growing too close together. This will help promote air circulation and prevent the spread of disease. Finally, don't be afraid to cut back healthy branches if they're interfering with power lines or other structures. Keeping your moringa tree well-pruned will help it stay healthy and thrive for years to come.

About Propagating

Propagation is usually done by seed, but occasionally stem cuttings are taken. The small black seeds have a hard seed coat and need to be nicked or filed before being soaked in warm water for 24 hours. They should then be planted in moist, well-drained soil mix and kept at a temperature of 21-24°C (70-75°F). The seedlings emerge in 14-21 days.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate studies indicate that the moringa tree grows rapidly. In general, the moringa tree can grow up to 20 feet (6 meters) in one year. However, the height of the tree depends on the growing conditions. The moringa tree can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions, but it prefers well-drained soils and full sun.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are that the leaves get yellow and fall off, the flowers don’t bloom, and the tree doesn’t produce fruit. These problems are often caused by too much or too little water, poor drainage, lack of nutrients, or pests.

Growing Tips

  • If you want to grow a moringa tree, it is important to choose a sunny spot in your garden.
  • Moringa trees need well-drained soil.
  • It is important to water your tree regularly, especially during the hot summer months.
  • You can fertilize your tree with compost or manure.
  • To keep your tree healthy, it is important to prune it regularly.
  • If you live in an area with a lot of wind, it is important to stake your tree.
  • You can harvest the leaves of your moringa tree throughout the year.
  • The fruits of the moringa tree can be used to make a delicious tea.
  • You can also use the leaves of the moringa tree to make a nutritious powder.
  • You can find moringa trees for sale at most nurseries.

Substitution

  • Moringa oleifera
  • Moringa stenopetala
  • Moringa concanensis
  • Moringa arborea
  • Moringa cajaputi
  • Moringa peregrina
  • Moringa ovalifolia
  • Moringa rivae
  • Moringa nilotica
  • Moringa drouhardii

Source:
Moringa, a Miracle Plant Growing in Alor Islands
Moringa oleifera | Purdue University Famine Foods
History, Taxonomy and Propagation of Moringa oleifera-A Review

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Reviewed & Published by Richelle
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