Direct seeding kelp
To restore kelp forests, we are exploring a novel method that allows for significant scale and cost reduction: direct seeding of kelp seedlings onto hard substrates such as rocks. The substrate hold the seedlings that are spayed onto its surface in place with binder, and can be deployed directly at a restoration location.
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In direct seeding kelp seedlings are sprayed onto substrates and held in place with use of a binder. The advantage of this method is that the substrates with kelp seedlings can be placed in the ocean directly after seeding, where they will attach themselves to the substrates over time. Direct seeding significantly reduces hatchery operation time compared to regular seaweed cultivation, which happens under controlled conditions in a nursery where seaweed attach themselves on substrates, requiring an incubation period of a few weeks to months before being placed in the ocean.
For farming purposes, kelp spores are usually seeded onto ropes, but for reforestation purposes, we seed spores onto rocks, as kelp often attaches to rocks in the wild.
Direct seeding is a novel method that can significantly reduce costs and increase production capacity.