Enhanced rooting of Acacia cuttings with OptiBoost vacuum impregnation tech 

OptiCept is thrilled with the Successful Test Results from the Cuttings Pilot Project in Asia. Acacia cuttings treated with the patented OptiBoost vacuum impregnation technology indicate a significantly increased rooting rate.

The first partial results for Acacia cuttings treated with the patented vacuum impregnation technology show an average improved rooting of 12-33% after 45 days, with the final assessment made after 90 days.

The patented OptiBoost technology is based on vacuum impregnation. Cuttings are placed in a vacuum chamber and impregnated with a nutrient liquid. Pressure parameters and a nano-based nutrient solution interact to give the cuttings the best possible conditions to take root and thus grow into a full-grown tree.

Acacia Cuttings

99% Rooting Rate

Several Acacia species are included in the trials, the increased rooting rates vary between 12-33%, but all boosted cuttings show improvements compared to the control.

“We design the nutrient solution and combine it with vacuum parameters to create the optimal condition for growth, as we gain more and more knowledge we can optimize the method even further”. Says Katarzyna Dymek, PhD, Process Development, OptiCept Technologies.

One Acacia species showed an extraordinary response to the treatment, providing a 99% rooting rate. As the graph below shows, this is an increase of 25,3 % compared to the untreated control.

Benefits for the forestry industry

The technology helps growers and forestry companies optimize efficiency and get even more value from their efforts. OptiBoost is an innovative solution that balances economic viability with environmental responsibility. With better efficiency, we can decrease time and energy consumption, improving sustainability.

There are numerous benefits for the forest industry generated by the OptiBoost method. Including better rooting quality, acceleration of root formation, and an increase in the nurseries’ capacity.

“We are constantly developing our method, and the knowledge we gained from treating more than Eucalyptus 500 000 cuttings has given us a solid platform to develop the technology further. We are thrilled to see the positive effect gained for Acacai as well”, Says Katarzyna Dymek.

Great results with Eucalyptus cuttings

The OptiBoost VI technology has already shown great results when it comes to enhanced rooting of Eucalyptus cuttings, leading to commercial breakthroughs in South America, with leading forestry companies in both Brazil e Chile, adopting the technology.

After several tests and trials in the lab environment, the first prototype was tested in the field. In 2021 a pilot trial with the prototype was conducted in South Africa for the treatment of Eucalyptus cuttings, showing very good results. Another pilot trial was conducted in South America confirming the good results.

The results showed that there are numerous benefits for the forest industry generated by the OptiBoost method including better rooting, stronger branching, more surviving plants, and fewer losses.

Eucalyptus Cuttings

About Acacia

Acacia trees are found in various countries around the world, and they are particularly diverse in terms of species and distribution.

Some common uses of Acacia:

Timber Production: Certain Acacia species are valued for their wood, which is used in construction, furniture making, and other woodworking applications. Acacia wood is known for its durability and strength.

Pulp and Paper Production: Some Acacia species are cultivated in large plantations for pulpwood used in the paper and pulp industry. The fast growth of Acacia makes it a suitable source for fiber production.

Gum Arabic Production: Acacia senegal and Acacia seyal are two species that produce gum arabic, a natural exudate obtained from the bark. Gum arabic is used in the food industry as a stabilizer and thickening agent, as well as in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and various industrial applications.

Medicinal Uses: Traditional medicine in various cultures has used certain Acacia species for medicinal purposes. Different parts of the plant, such as bark, leaves, and gum, may be employed for their perceived health benefits.

Horticulture and Ornamental Planting: Some Acacia species are planted for landscaping and ornamental purposes. They are valued for their attractive flowers, foliage, and ability to thrive in various climates.

Soil Improvement: Acacia species, particularly those with nitrogen-fixing nodules, can improve soil fertility by enhancing nitrogen levels. This makes them useful in agroforestry and reforestation projects.

Animal Forage: In some regions, Acacia foliage is used as animal forage due to its nutritional content. It can be an important food source for livestock.

Environmental Management: Acacia species are sometimes planted for soil erosion control, watershed protection, and land reclamation. They can be valuable in restoring degraded landscapes.

Bee Forage: Acacia flowers produce nectar, and some species are good sources of forage for honeybees. Acacia honey is produced in regions where these trees are prevalent.

Discover the benefits of OptiBoost for cuttings

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