Trees helping trees
Inga (Inga edulis) is an extraordinary tree that is helping Maya communities to restore degraded landscape.
A Farmer and his Inga (2018) by Maximiliano Caal Ya'axché Conservation Trust
Inga edulis
MGL Farmers in southern Belize, are establishing Inga alley cropping plots to restore soil and protect forest.
Inga Roots (2018) by Maximiliano Caal Ya'axché Conservation Trust
Inga nitrogen-fixing nodules
As a leguminous plant, Inga roots have nitrogen-fixing nodules, which help to enrich the soil naturally with nutrients.
Organic Pumpkins on the Vine (2020) by Sayuri Tzul Ya'axché Conservation Trust
Organic crops
When farmers intercrop food staples, such as pumpkin, corn and beans within the rows of planted Inga, the crops are extremely productive due to Inga’s role in boosting soil fertility. 100% organic!
A Mature Inga Plot (2018) by Maximiliano Caal Ya'axché Conservation Trust
Mature Inga plot
Inga plots are small in size and are recognized by uniform rows of Inga trees. They’re a quick growing tree, and produce shade that protects the soil from the harsh Belizean sun.
Inga Trees in Rows (2020) by Sayuri Tzul Ya'axché Conservation Trust
Pruned Inga plot
When Inga trees reach maturity, farmers will prune each tree to chest height.
Pruning Inga for Natural Mulch (2019) by Maximiliano Caal Ya'axché Conservation Trust
Inga pruning
Farmers and community members come together to prune Inga trees. It takes teamwork to complete this arduous task. When Inga trees are pruned, the green leaves are left on the ground as mulch and the cut branches are collected and used for firewood. Every part is utilized.
Inga Leaves as Ground Cover (2018) by Maximiliano Caal Ya'axché Conservation Trust
Decomposing Inga green leaves
The green leaves on the ground will dry and decompose. This creates a protective cover for soil, allows for moisture retention and establishes an ideal microclimate for soil organisms to create fertile, organic material.
Inga Leaf Mulch (2020) by Sayuri Tzul Ya'axché Conservation Trust
Slash and mulch within Inga alley cropping plot
Inga plots also replace the use of fire, traditionally known as milpa or slash and burn, by providing the MGL farmers with an effective environmentally friendly alternative, slash and mulch.
Pioneering Inga plots in Maya Mountain North Forest Reserve
Inga trees are planted across the Maya Golden Landscape in southern Belize, from local farms to protected areas, helping to maintain valuable forest cover. Pioneering Inga plots in Maya Mountain North Forest Reserve creates a model for this type of sustainable farming.
Sayuri Tzul/Ya'axchéMegan Lopez/Ya'axché
You are all set!
Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.
