An Experimental Study of Underutilized Plant Species

Underutilized plants and orphan crops are being closely examined as we deal with issues of food and nutrition security, especially in this current climate of uncertainty. The project initiated by the Rockeller Foundation, The Periodic Table of Food, has as a key objective the recommendation of research into orphan crops for greater variability and accessibility. From a regional perspective, it is important that we recognize the need to expand our food sources and be less dependent on extra-regional imports. BERP will play its role by setting up demonstration plots to monitor for the conditions that provide optimum growth of underutilized species and then sharing of data sets with farming/agricultural communities. Currently, the expertise of consultant Marcia Marville, former Head of the Department of Agriculture, Barbados Community College, is guiding student volunteers in the best experimental practices. Initially, the plant Portulaca oleracea or Purslane, will be monitored in units provided by All Greens Ltd. (Facebook: @AllGreens246). These units allow water resources applied in the units to be monitored and duplicate experiments to be carried out for the mode of fertilizer application.

The experiments will be replicated for a number of species. Woody resinous species, broad leaved species and aromatic species will also be selected for biofuel, alternative to plastic and production studies.