Tropical fruit trees for carbon sequestration in florida gardens
Exploring the potential of tropical fruit trees like mango, papaya, and avocado to enhance carbon sequestration in lawns and gardens, while providing nutritious fruits. This study aims to identify species that efficiently store soil carbon and improve landscape sustainability.
Overview
This research explores the role of tropical fruit trees in sequestering carbon within lawns and gardens in South Florida. By examining species such as mango, papaya, avocado, guava, passionfruit, and dragonfruit, the study seeks to enhance carbon storage while providing nutritious fruits. The project aims to identify which species sequester more carbon and how they can work alongside lawn grasses to create resilient and sustainable gardens.
Technical specifications
Research Focus:
- Investigating the root architecture and organic carbon dynamics of selected tropical fruit trees.
- Conducting surveys of residential landscapes to document fruit tree presence and management.
- Establishing controlled plots to measure root architecture, soil carbon content, and biomass using standardized methods.
- Comparing soil carbon levels under fruit trees and turfgrass to determine sequestration efficiency.
Technology readiness level
The project is currently at a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 3. Initial surveys and controlled experiments will further validate the carbon-sequestration potential of these tropical fruit trees in residential settings.
About University of Florida
The University of Florida is a comprehensive public research university with a broad academic and research portfolio and a statewide presence. Industry collaborates through co-located labs and shared core facilities and through an integrated academic health system that accelerates clinical translation. A statewide extension network and multiple research and education sites connect companies with field-scale testing and rapid deployment, while incubators and an adjacent innovation district provide pathways from lab to market. Research is supported by competitive funding from major federal agencies such as NIH, NSF, USDA, and DOE. A dedicated technology transfer office supports IP, licensing, and startup formation.
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