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  <div class="title"><h3>5.26 -Planting Fig Trees to Combat Drought</h3><br><h3 class="ch-owner">Sarah Douglas, University of Guelph, Canada </h3></div>
  <div class="title"><h3>5.27 -use of Tal-Ya tray for fruit trees as a sustainable, low cost, low labour practice for subsistence farmers in Africa</h3><br><h3 class="ch-owner">Tara Preston, University of Guelph, Canada </h3></div>
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<p>Suggested citation for this chapter.</p>
<p>Suggested citation for this chapter.</p>
<p>Douglas,S. (2022) Planting Fig Trees to Combat Drought, In Farmpedia, The Encyclopedia for Small Scale Farmers. Editor, M.N. Raizada, University of Guelph, Canada. http://www.farmpedia.org</p>
<p>Preston,T. (2022) use of Tal-Ya tray for fruit trees as a sustainable, low cost, low labour practice for subsistence farmers in Africa, In Farmpedia, The Encyclopedia for Small Scale Farmers. Editor, M.N. Raizada, University of Guelph, Canada. http://www.farmpedia.org</p>
       <h3 class="title-bg">Background</h3>
       <h3 class="title-bg">Water Scarcity in Africa</h3>
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           <p>Ficus, or fig, trees originated in Asia Minor and have spread around the world (Lansky, 2011). The fig appears to be one of the earliest crops cultivated by humans for food and medicinal use (Lansky, 2011), and was domesticated around 6500 years ago (Kislev, 2006). There are approximately 850 species of fig globally (Lansky, 2011). They are very resilient to drought, can be grown in a variety of soils and regions, and are easy to propagate and grow (Balehegn, 2014). Figs are already grown in parts of Africa such as Ethiopia but are underutilized in other African countries due to a lack of knowledge about the plant and technical knowledge about its use (Balehegn, 2015). Ficus agroforestry can be an economically stable, environmentally friendly self-sustainable agricultural system for farmers in drought-prone areas. There have low external input requirements, are resilient to water scarcity, diseases and pests, contribute to food security and household income, and have environmental benefits (Dhanya, 2016).</p>  
           <p>Water scarcity impacts one in every three Africans, and specifically 400 million sub-Saharan Africans are unable to receive access to drinking water  (Holtz and Golubski, 2021). Because water access is often restricted in these countries, only roughly six percent of all farmland in Africa is irrigation (IFPRI, 2010). The need for new technologies and methods to aid in this crisis are in demand; however, there is a lack of resources, education, and money to invest in these advanced technologies (IFPRI, 2010). Tal-Ya trays were designed to aid in this issue, as they are easy to use and relatively affordable. The main cause of crop failure in arid climates is due to dry periods, where between 50-70% of rain does not reach plant roots before it is evaporated (Rockström and Falkenmark, 2015). This is a concern in the agriculture sector because many farmers rely on rainfall as their main source for watering plants. Subtropical Africa has very few “blue water” sources, such as rivers and lakes, and therefore 95% of farmers solely rely on “green water,” which is the moisture held in soils from the rain (Rockström and Falkenmark, 2015).</p>
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       <h3 class="title-bg">Growing Fig Trees: Step by Step Instructions</h3>
       <h3 class="title-bg">Climate Change</h3>
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<p><b>Climate Factors</b></p>
<p>By 2050 the Sub-Saharan African population is projected to double (Rockström and Falkenmark, 2015). With many African countries already experiencing water shortages, combined with increased population growth and ongoing climate change, Africa is expected to get warmer and drier (UNEP, 2012). Since 2012, undernourishment in people living in drought-prone areas of Africa, such as Saharan Africa, has increased by 45.6%, which is problematic given that many Africans rely on agriculture as their main source of income (UNFCCC, 2020). The IPCC predicts that with the projected temperature increase, there is a higher risk of crop production and food security failure (UNFCCC, 2020). Women will be the most impacted by climate change in African countries as approximately half of the female population in developing countries are involved in agriculture (UNFCCC, 2020). Integrating simple and affordable technologies such as the Tal-Ya tray can help buffer the impacts of increased temperature and decreased precipitation for African farmers.</p>
<p>Figs are produced in over fifty countries worldwide (World Mapper, 2016), but the main fig producing countries include Turkey, Egypt, Algeria, Iran, Morocco, the Syrian Arab Republic, USA, and Spain (Jafari, 2017). They are also widely grown in Africa, South America, and Asia (World Mapper, 2016). Fig trees are able to thrive in arid and semi-arid climates because of their high tolerance to water stress due to a characteristic succulence that helps it to retain large amounts of water in almost all parts of the tree (Balehegn, 2015). Figs can be grown in a wide variety of soils ranging from clay to course sand (Abdolahipour, 2019). The ideal soil situation would be light, deep, loamy and well-draining soil that is rich in humus (Balehegn, 2015) with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 6.8 (Andrade, 2014). A soil depth of 1-1.5 metres is adequate (CABI Invasive Species Compendium, 2019). Fig trees can grow are grown at altitudes between zero and 3000 metres (CABI Invasive Species Compendium, 2019). They require plenty of light, growing best with eight hours or more of sunlight (Alfrey, 2016). Annual rainfall of 750 mm is sufficient to produce decent crop yields (Alfrey, 2016), but figs can tolerate less than 430 mm of annual precipitation (CABI Invasive Species Compendium, 2019). Figs can grow in temperatures down to 15 degrees Fahrenheit and can survive at zero degrees with heavy mulch (Barth, 2013).</p>  
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       <h3 class="title-bg">Type </h3>
       <h3 class="title-bg">What are Tal-Ya trays</h3>
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<p>Figs are divided into four types based on pollination and cropping characteristics. The ‘Common’ type is recommended for farmers looking for lower costs and labour intensity because it requires insect pollination to produce a commercial crop (Mars, 2017). Ficus thonningii is an example of a wild common fig that is native to thirty-three sub-Saharan countries (Balehegn, 2015). Only the female trees produce consumable fruits so that is another important consideration (Lansky, 2011).</p>  
<p>Tal-Ya trays were developed and produced by an Israeli-based company; they are made of polypropylene plastic trays that are square and concave shaped (Figure 1) (Knoop et al., 2012; Leichmann, 2019). The material used is from non-PET recycled plastic with the addition of limestone additive and UV filters (Knoop et al., 2012; Leichmann, 2019). Furthermore, the purpose of this product is to provide a microclimate around fruit trees that collects dew during the night and condensation during the day (VENS, 2020). Dew forms from the process of vapourized water condensation and formation of small droplets of water on cool surfaces (Micalizio, 2013). Condensation is the chemical process of water droplets forming when humid air comes in contact with a cool surface (Rutledge et al. 2011). Taking advantage of these two chemical processes (dew and condensation) are great for arid climates, such as parts of Africa, that may not receive repetitive rainfall events (Micalizio, 2013).</p>
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       <h3 class="title-bg">Propagation </h3>
       <h3 class="title-bg">How to install and use Tal-Ya trays</h3>
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<p>Fig trees take between two to five years to reach maturity and harvest is possible, both of cuttings and fodder leaves (Balehegn, 2015). Farmers can grow one to four meter cuttings into mature trees within two to five years (Balehegn, 2015). </p>  
<p>Tal-Ya trays are 55 cm by 72 cm in size and are lightweight, making the process of set-up and transportation easy (Knoop et al., 2012). After installation, minimal maintenance is required and the product can last 6-10 years before needing replacement (Knoop et al., 2012). Individual trays cost $3 (USD) each and are easy to use and install by farmers, as quickly as 1 minute per tree (VENS, 2020; Agassi, n.d). To install a tray the following steps are required:
 
<p>1. Flatten and level desired area and discard any weeds;</p>
<p><b>Table 1:</b> Indigenous protocols and requirements for successful propagation/establishment of Ficus thonningii (takend from Balehegn, 2015).</p>  
<p>2. Open and place the tray around the tree;</p>
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<p>3. Scatter soil around the edges of the trays;</p>
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<p>4. If using on hillsides or in extreme weather conditions, secure the trays with pegs or nails in the pre-made holes along the edges of the trays
(Tal-Ya, 2020).</p>
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       <h3 class="title-bg">Planting</h3>
       <h3 class="title-bg">Integrating Tal-Ya trays into subsistence farming, especially for fruit trees</h3>
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<p>Fig tree roots tend to be quite invasive and can choke out other plants. If farmers desire to constrain tree roots, fig trees can be contained in pots or build retaining walls underground to keep roots structured. If growing in pots, soil should be replaced every three years (Alfrey, 2016). Applying mulch has positive impacts on the number and width of leaves, growth rate, length and diameter of shoots, and fruit quality (Jafari, 2017), as well as suppresses weed growth, improves infiltration, increases water retention, protects from erosion and nutrient leaching (Jafari, 2012), and regulates soil temperatures throughout the year (Jafari, 2012).</p>  
<p>Fruit production has a higher income value when compared to cereals, root crops, and legume grain crops, especially in developing nations (FAO, 2017; Raney et al., 2011). This specifically applies to women and children involved in subsistence farming. The cultivation and maintenance of fruit crops are usually a woman’s task, allowing her to earn income that goes towards her family (Perasso, 2017). Conversely, fruit agriculture usually requires greater labour and increased water requirements which the use of Tal-Ya trays may alleviate (FAO, 2017). Tal-Ya trays increase the yield, quality, and developmental timing of fruits, while decreasing the need for herbicides, fertilizers, and water (VENS, 2020; Leichmann, 2019). It decreases the need for fertilizer because the tray prevents continuous disturbance to the soil surrounding the fruit tree, ultimately limiting the movement of nutrients that could leach beyond the root system (VENS, 2020). Herbicide use is also lessened because the Tal-Ya trays accelerate fruit growth and serves as an alternative to weed-killer around the most viable roots of the fruit tree (limiting nutrient competition) (IEICI, 2014). Furthermore, many farmers in Africa, specifically East and Northwest Africa, are required to farm on hillsides which often correlates to soil erosion. Adding Tal-Ya trays on hillside farms promotes soil conservation and prevents erosion and salinization (Knoop et al., 2012). Because the Tal-Ya trays reduce evaporation and promote dew formation, salt from brackish water rarely surfaces, and salts are often washed down below the root system (Knoop et al., 2012; Agassi, n.d). Furthermore, the trays allow for water to be concentrated towards the root zone for uptake, thus leading to less run-off and erosion (Knoop et al., 2012). Tal-Ya trays produce a microclimate and prevent weeds from growing near and around the crop, which means the demand for manual weeding and the exposure to pesticides will lesson (Knoop et al. 2012). With the high value of fruit farming, the investment of Tal-Ya trays will be easily recovered.</p>
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       <h3 class="title-bg">Pruning </h3>
       <h3 class="title-bg">The overall cost-benefit analysis</h3>
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<p>Fig trees produce well with or without pruning (California Rare Fruit Growers, 1996). However, pruning does have some advantages, such as training them to produce low-hanging fruit in the crown for picking, improved air circulation, and increased quality of fruit (though decreased quantity). Trees should only be pruned in the initial years, as pruning after these years causes a loss in crop (California Rare Fruit Growers, 1996).  
<p>Tal-Ya trays can be recycled when they are ready to be disposed of in most areas of Africa (VENS, 2020). The design of the tray allows sunlight to be reflected into the fruit tree canopy increasing photosynthesis, the process of creating energy in plants (VENS, 2020). Economically, the cost of these trays ($3 USD each) can be recovered within 1-2 years (VENS, 2021; Agassi, n.d). Other sources claim that the return on investment can be achieved within the initial growing season because of fertilizer savings, water efficiency, and improved crop productivity (Tree Trays, 2017). Therefore, the lifespan of these trays and the amount of time it takes to recover the expense is well worth the investment. Moreover, the installation of these trays also saves money on the use of chemical, mechanical, and manual weeding practices because the demand for weed control is well reduced (Agassi, n.d). Also, because the trays produce and prevent water loss, the demand for water or irrigation is reduced, leading to less salt accumulation on the soil surface (Agassi, n.d.).</p>  
Irrigation</p>
<p>Although fig trees are resistant to drought, their growth can be negatively impacted by severe drought conditions. In excessively dry conditions, plants develop few leaves and produce either minimal or no fruits (Andrade, 2014). However, there are ways to mitigate these stresses that can occur in rain-fed orchards (Jafari, 2017). Farmers have used mulching, micro-catchments, supplemental irrigation and potassium nutrition to help alleviate soil moisture stress (Abdolahipour, 2019). Farmers should be warned that when planted in poorly drained soils, fig tree roots may rot (Andrade, 2014). Because the fig evolved in dry, hot climates, they do not have high fertilizer, compost or irrigation needs, and too much of these inputs can hamper their growth (Barth, 2013).</p>
<p>As already noted, on rainfed farms, 750 mm of annual rainfall should be sufficient to produce a decent crop (Alfrey, 2016). If farmers are practicing irrigation, young trees should be watered regularly until they have established themselves. For mature trees, deep watering weekly or biweekly is sufficient (California Rare Fruit Growers, Inc, 1996). Do not irrigate heavily during fruit development and ripening because it can cause the fruit splitting (Alfrey, 2016). Yellow, falling leaves are a sign of water stress (California Rare Fruit Growers, Inc, 1996).</p>
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       <h3 class="title-bg">Fertilizer</h3>
       <h3 class="title-bg">Negative implications and Alternative products</h3>
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<p>Limited research has been done on fig’s fertilizer needs (Irget, 2008). However, studies have shown that basic NPK fertilization along with between 280 and 420 g of Ca per tree does reduces the impacts of drought stress and increases fig yields and quality through increased weight and reduced sunscald and crack incidence (Irget, 2008). The benefits carry on into the years following application (Irget, 2008). In the section on ‘Soil Health’ below, it is explained how fig trees also produce organic fertilizer through litter decomposition.</p>
<p>Indigenous practices, before products like the Tal-Ya tray, consisted of placing porous rocks around a crop to collect dew (Kloosterman, 2009). This technique is effective and very cheap, but it is labour intensive and requires heavy lifting. Since the fruit industry in Africa often consists of women, this indigenous practice may not be used by many fruit farmers. The design of Tal-Ya trays was taken from this ancient practice and developed into an easier and lighter product that can be used by all (Kloosterman, 2009).</p>  
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<p>Another indigenous practice used for water conservation is the Negarim microcatchment concept; basins are created and shaped like a diamond surrounded by embarkments made of soil (FAO, n.d). In the corner of each basin, water is collected into holes or pits and infiltrated into the root zone of the soil (FAO, n.d). This technique is useful for conserving water, but it does not decrease pesticide use/exposure and is only appropriate in semi-arid and high rainfall environments (UF Berlin, n.d). Another downside to this technique is that the soil must be deep enough for the construction of the water-collecting pits and requires continuous maintenance to prevent soil erosion and other vegetation from growing (UF Berlin, n.d). It is costly and takes one day to build two units, whereas the installation of one Tal-Ya tray takes one minute (FAO, n.d).</p>  
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<p> Groasis Waterboxx® is another product consisting of a box that captures and stores rainwater around a plant (PopTech, 2010). This product can store water that will feed a plant for an entire year (PopTech, 2010).  However, a downside of this product is that it is difficult to use on hillsides (PopTech, 2010). One Groasis Waterboxx® costs $38 (USD) which is relatively expensive for a farmer in Africa (Groasis, 2021).</p>  
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<p>Another product competing with Tal-Ya trays is plastic mulch. It is applied around crops to increase soil temperature, weed control, and decrease water evaporation (Eisen, 2011). Conversely, it is an expensive product and unfortunately prevents rainfall from penetrating through to the soil (Eisen, 2011). Additionally, it is labour intensive and expensive for setting up and removal and must be replaced more often than Tal-Ya trays (Eisen, 2011). Because rainfall cannot penetrate through the plastic mulch, run-off, and contamination into surrounding environments is a concern (Eisen, 2011).</p>  
      <h3 class="title-bg">Harvesting</h3>
<p>There is a concern of Tal-Ya trays breaking or cracking in the hot sun. Tal-Ya trays contain an aluminum additive that protects the trays from temperature fluctuations between day and night (Kloosterman, 2009). Moreover, the plastic material is UV protected allowing it to handle harsh full sunlight (Tree Tray, 2017). Tal-Ya trays can be shipped to African farmers but there is currently no distribution center located there. They are currently sold in Israel, Chile, Georgia, the U.S, Sri Lanka, and China (Tal-Ya, n.d). However, a nearly identical product is sold in South Africa called Tree-Trays.</p>  
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<p>Fig fruits must be harvested only when fully ripe because they will not mature once picked. Gently harvest fruit when it is soft and starting to bend at its neck (Alfrey, 2016). Yellow colouring is most desirable on the market (Jafari, 2017). Because fresh figs only last several days if stored in cool temperatures, drying figs is a way of maintaining freshness. Drying figs in the sun takes four to five days and will keep for six to eight months (Alfrey, 2016). Lay figs down in one layer on wooden/plastic trays and place in the sun (Manolopoulou, 2017). Because sun drying means figs are exposed to rain, extreme heat, dew, dust, microorganisms, and rodents, constructing plastic open-air tunnels overtop of the figs can protect them (Oksar, 2017). These are cheap, easy structures to construct that decrease drying time by 24 hours (Oksar, 2017).</p>
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      <h3 class="title-bg">Fig Tree Uses </h3>
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<p><b>Fodder</b></p>
<p>Fig trees are superior biomass producers and can produce up to 50.4 kilograms of dry matter per tree every year, depending on their age. Leaves are used as fodder for livestock such as goats, and can improve animal productivity (Balehegn, 2015). Fodder can be used as fuel. Fig tree leaves are a safe, non-polluting, bio-renewable energy source thanks to the rich content of natural latex (Lansky, 2011).</p>
<p><b>Shade Trees</b></p>
<p>Fig trees serve as shade trees in cultivated plots. They are often left standing when forests are cut down to remain as shade trees to protect other crops (Beentje, 2007).</p>  
<p><b>Soil Health</b></p>
<p>The fig tree can naturally improve soil quality around the base of its trunk. This aids the development of the tree and helps plants growing underneath (Balehegn, 2015). When it rains, the arrangement of leaves and branches allow the tree to catch and channel raindrops down the stem into the soil, increases moisture content (Balehegn, 2015). The leaves of the tree are highly compostable, so when they fall and decompose, organic matter content is increased (Balehegn, 2015) and essential nutrients are reintegrated into the soil (Dhanya, 2013). This litterfall, which includes leaves, twigs, flowers, fruits, and buds (Dhanya, 2013), can be used as mulch for dryland soil as it fulfills up to 76.60% of nitrogen, 20.24% of phosphorus and 67.76% of potassium requirements for dryland crops per hectare.  This allows farmers to reduce fertilizer application and labour, because litter can be ploughed into the land during land preparation. It is estimated that ficus trees can decrease expenditures on inorganic fertilizers by 49%, not including savings on transportation and labour costs for application (Dhanya, 2013).</p>
<p><b>Food and Income Sources</b></p>     
<p>Fig fruits can be eaten as part of a regular diet or in food insecure months, or sold for extra income. Nutritionally, figs contain high levels of magnesium, calcium, iron, potassium, and fiber, amino acids, flavonoids, antioxidants, and polyphenols, and smaller levels of vitamins B6, K, E, B1, and A (High Atlas Agriculture and Artisanal, n.d.). When grown in combination with staple food crops like millet and sorghum, figs help fulfill some nutritional requirements of subsistence farming families (Dhanya, 2016). Figs are made into jams or candied with heavy syrup and sold as confectionaries (Aksoy, 2017). In markets, they are usually sold dried, whole, sliced, cubed or ground into a paste. Concentrated fig juice can be extracted from pressed figs or figs boiled with water, and then be drank as juice, used as pastry glaze, or distilled to make wine, vinegar, or other alcoholic drinks (Aksoy, 2017). </p>
<p>To sell figs fresh, they must be sold the day of or after they are picked. This means that when fig trees in an area that ripen at the same time may cause market prices to drop (Upale, 2011). Because they quickly spoil, farmers could dry figs to sell instead.</p>
<p><b>Nutrition Facts</b></p>
<p>Daily values based on 2000 calorie diet and 155 pounds body weight (Nutritionvalue.org):</p>
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<p>Figure 4: Proteins and Aminoacids, 100 g raw fig (Nutritionalvalue.org).</p>
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<p>Figure 5: Minerals, 100 g raw fig (Nutritionalvalue.org).</p>  
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       <h3 class="title-bg">Pests and Diseases </h3>
       <h3 class="title-bg">Additional information and resources </h3>
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<p>Fig trees are prone to nematode attacks. Leaf rust that causes early leaf fall and reduced crop yields can be caused by Cerotelium fici. Fig trees are vulnerable to pests such as Carpophilus hemipterus (which can infest fig fruit and transmit parasitic fungi), Hypoborus ficus (causes drying out and death of the tree), and Homotoma ficus that feeds on fig leaves and causes them to yellow and fall off (CABI Invasive Species Compendium, 2019).</p>
<p>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8eoPFj_WbF0
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Introduction into the Tal-Ya Agriculture Solutions including benefits and features of the product</p>
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<p>https://www.treetrays.co.za
      <h3 class="title-bg">Dangers</h3>
Alternative product to Tal-Ya trays sold in Africa</p>
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<p>Dried figs can develop mold infestations that can produce noxious compounds called aflatoxins (Lansky, 2011), which may cause cancer, liver dysfunction, congenital anomaly, bleeding, etc. in humans and animals (Sahin, 2017). Stress during drought years can increase the chance of these fungi appearing and therefore increase the levels of aflatoxins in figs (Lansky, 2011). Fig trees produce white sap that can cause bleeding under the nails and blistering, so farmers are recommended to wear gloves, wristbands, and/or scarves for protection (Ferreira, 2016).</p>  
<p>https://www.treetrays.co.za/buy-now/
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Website that takes you to order Tree-trays (an alternative product sold in Africa)</p>  
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<p>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOmyUkDfliY
      <h3 class="title-bg">Purchasing Seed and Related Materials</h3>
Video showing how to easily install Tal-Ya trays</p>
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<p>Alibaba: https://www.alibaba.com 
<p>https://www.researchgate.net/publication/323656690_Securing_Water_and_Land_in_the_Tana_Basin_a_resource_book_for_water_managers_and_practitioners
Seeds of Africa: https://www.seedsforafrica.co.za/search?q=fig
Short book containing multiple water conserving techniques adapted by developing countries including Tal-Ya trays</p>
Rare Exotic Seeds: https://www.rarexoticseeds.com/en/ficus-carica-seeds-common-fig-seeds.html</p>
 
<p><b>Online Resources:</b></p>
<p>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJCCXaIz3xc
<p>Video on Propagation from Cuttings: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bQ0ASRum3ik</p>
Information on an alternative product called the Groasis Waterboxx®</p>
<p>Video on Growing a Tree from Seed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PVQ7oQpfcOg</p>
 
<p>Video on How to Dry Figs: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yVuD2G0pU2Y</p>
<p>https://manualzz.com/doc/6714975/tal-ya-user-guideline
<p>How and Why to Prune Fig Trees: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tADEOd64Gmk</p>
Tal-Ya user manual with set-up and maintenance instructions</p>  
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       <h3 class="title-bg">References </h3>
       <h3 class="title-bg">References </h3>
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<p>1. Abdolahipour, M., Kamgar-Haghighi, A. A., Sepaskhah, A. R., Zand-Parsa, S., Honar, T., & Razzaghi, F. (2019). Time and amount of supplemental irrigation at different distances from tree trunks influence on morphological characteristics and physiological responses of rainfed fig trees under drought conditions. Scientia Horticulturae, 253(Complete), 241–254. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scienta.2019.04.023. Retrieved from: https://journals- scholarsportal- info.subzero.lib.uoguelph.ca/details/03044238/v253icomplete/241_taaosirftudc.xml</p>
<p>1. Agassi, M. (n.d.). Advantages of the use of Tal Ya trays in the agricultural system. Tal-Ya Water Technologies Ltd. Retrieved from http://www.tal-ya.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Advantages-of-the-use-of-TalYa-trays-in- the-agricultural-system.pdf</p>
 
<p>2. Eisen, R. (2011). The Ubiquitous use of Plastic Mulch in Organic Systems. Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia. Retrieved from https://www.dal.ca/faculty/agriculture/oacc/en-home/about/about-oacc/documents/newspaper-articles/newsarticles-2011/newsarticle-2011-plastic-mulch.html </p>
 
<p>3. Falkenmark, M. (1989). The Massive Water Scarcity Now Threatening Africa: Why Isn't It Being Addressed? AMBIO, 18(2), 112–missing 118. https://www.jstor.org/stable/pdf/4313541.pdf</p>


<p>2. Aksoy, U. (2017). The dried fig management and the potential for new products. Acta Horticulturae, 1173, 377-381. DOI 10.17660/ActaHortic.2017.1173.65</p>
<p>4. FAO (n.d.) Water harvesting techniques. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome, Italy. Retrieved from https://www.fao.org/3/u3160e/u3160e07.htm</p>


<p>3. Alfrey, P. (2016). Dig the Fig – the Essential Guide to All You Need to Know About Figs. Permaculture Research Institute, New South Wales. Retrieved from: https://permaculturenews.org/2016/09/30/dig-fig-essential-guide-need-know-figs- ficus- carica/</p>
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<p>15. Jafari, M., Haghighi, J. A. P., & Zare, H. (2012). Mulching impact on plant growth and production of rainfed fig orchards under drought conditions. Journal of Food, Agriculture & Environment, 10(1), 428-429.
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<p>17. Lansky, E.P., & Paavilainen, H.M. (2011). Figs: The Genus Ficus. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press. Retrieved from: https://scholar.google.ca/scholar?q=figs:+the+genus+ficus&hl=en&as_sdt=0&as_vis=1& oi=scholart </p>
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Latest revision as of 16:22, 13 April 2026

5.27 -use of Tal-Ya tray for fruit trees as a sustainable, low cost, low labour practice for subsistence farmers in Africa


Tara Preston, University of Guelph, Canada

Suggested citation for this chapter.

Preston,T. (2022) use of Tal-Ya tray for fruit trees as a sustainable, low cost, low labour practice for subsistence farmers in Africa, In Farmpedia, The Encyclopedia for Small Scale Farmers. Editor, M.N. Raizada, University of Guelph, Canada. http://www.farmpedia.org

Water Scarcity in Africa

Water scarcity impacts one in every three Africans, and specifically 400 million sub-Saharan Africans are unable to receive access to drinking water (Holtz and Golubski, 2021). Because water access is often restricted in these countries, only roughly six percent of all farmland in Africa is irrigation (IFPRI, 2010). The need for new technologies and methods to aid in this crisis are in demand; however, there is a lack of resources, education, and money to invest in these advanced technologies (IFPRI, 2010). Tal-Ya trays were designed to aid in this issue, as they are easy to use and relatively affordable. The main cause of crop failure in arid climates is due to dry periods, where between 50-70% of rain does not reach plant roots before it is evaporated (Rockström and Falkenmark, 2015). This is a concern in the agriculture sector because many farmers rely on rainfall as their main source for watering plants. Subtropical Africa has very few “blue water” sources, such as rivers and lakes, and therefore 95% of farmers solely rely on “green water,” which is the moisture held in soils from the rain (Rockström and Falkenmark, 2015).

Climate Change

By 2050 the Sub-Saharan African population is projected to double (Rockström and Falkenmark, 2015). With many African countries already experiencing water shortages, combined with increased population growth and ongoing climate change, Africa is expected to get warmer and drier (UNEP, 2012). Since 2012, undernourishment in people living in drought-prone areas of Africa, such as Saharan Africa, has increased by 45.6%, which is problematic given that many Africans rely on agriculture as their main source of income (UNFCCC, 2020). The IPCC predicts that with the projected temperature increase, there is a higher risk of crop production and food security failure (UNFCCC, 2020). Women will be the most impacted by climate change in African countries as approximately half of the female population in developing countries are involved in agriculture (UNFCCC, 2020). Integrating simple and affordable technologies such as the Tal-Ya tray can help buffer the impacts of increased temperature and decreased precipitation for African farmers.

What are Tal-Ya trays

Tal-Ya trays were developed and produced by an Israeli-based company; they are made of polypropylene plastic trays that are square and concave shaped (Figure 1) (Knoop et al., 2012; Leichmann, 2019). The material used is from non-PET recycled plastic with the addition of limestone additive and UV filters (Knoop et al., 2012; Leichmann, 2019). Furthermore, the purpose of this product is to provide a microclimate around fruit trees that collects dew during the night and condensation during the day (VENS, 2020). Dew forms from the process of vapourized water condensation and formation of small droplets of water on cool surfaces (Micalizio, 2013). Condensation is the chemical process of water droplets forming when humid air comes in contact with a cool surface (Rutledge et al. 2011). Taking advantage of these two chemical processes (dew and condensation) are great for arid climates, such as parts of Africa, that may not receive repetitive rainfall events (Micalizio, 2013).

How to install and use Tal-Ya trays

Tal-Ya trays are 55 cm by 72 cm in size and are lightweight, making the process of set-up and transportation easy (Knoop et al., 2012). After installation, minimal maintenance is required and the product can last 6-10 years before needing replacement (Knoop et al., 2012). Individual trays cost $3 (USD) each and are easy to use and install by farmers, as quickly as 1 minute per tree (VENS, 2020; Agassi, n.d). To install a tray the following steps are required:

1. Flatten and level desired area and discard any weeds;

2. Open and place the tray around the tree;

3. Scatter soil around the edges of the trays;

4. If using on hillsides or in extreme weather conditions, secure the trays with pegs or nails in the pre-made holes along the edges of the trays (Tal-Ya, 2020).

Integrating Tal-Ya trays into subsistence farming, especially for fruit trees

Fruit production has a higher income value when compared to cereals, root crops, and legume grain crops, especially in developing nations (FAO, 2017; Raney et al., 2011). This specifically applies to women and children involved in subsistence farming. The cultivation and maintenance of fruit crops are usually a woman’s task, allowing her to earn income that goes towards her family (Perasso, 2017). Conversely, fruit agriculture usually requires greater labour and increased water requirements which the use of Tal-Ya trays may alleviate (FAO, 2017). Tal-Ya trays increase the yield, quality, and developmental timing of fruits, while decreasing the need for herbicides, fertilizers, and water (VENS, 2020; Leichmann, 2019). It decreases the need for fertilizer because the tray prevents continuous disturbance to the soil surrounding the fruit tree, ultimately limiting the movement of nutrients that could leach beyond the root system (VENS, 2020). Herbicide use is also lessened because the Tal-Ya trays accelerate fruit growth and serves as an alternative to weed-killer around the most viable roots of the fruit tree (limiting nutrient competition) (IEICI, 2014). Furthermore, many farmers in Africa, specifically East and Northwest Africa, are required to farm on hillsides which often correlates to soil erosion. Adding Tal-Ya trays on hillside farms promotes soil conservation and prevents erosion and salinization (Knoop et al., 2012). Because the Tal-Ya trays reduce evaporation and promote dew formation, salt from brackish water rarely surfaces, and salts are often washed down below the root system (Knoop et al., 2012; Agassi, n.d). Furthermore, the trays allow for water to be concentrated towards the root zone for uptake, thus leading to less run-off and erosion (Knoop et al., 2012). Tal-Ya trays produce a microclimate and prevent weeds from growing near and around the crop, which means the demand for manual weeding and the exposure to pesticides will lesson (Knoop et al. 2012). With the high value of fruit farming, the investment of Tal-Ya trays will be easily recovered.

The overall cost-benefit analysis

Tal-Ya trays can be recycled when they are ready to be disposed of in most areas of Africa (VENS, 2020). The design of the tray allows sunlight to be reflected into the fruit tree canopy increasing photosynthesis, the process of creating energy in plants (VENS, 2020). Economically, the cost of these trays ($3 USD each) can be recovered within 1-2 years (VENS, 2021; Agassi, n.d). Other sources claim that the return on investment can be achieved within the initial growing season because of fertilizer savings, water efficiency, and improved crop productivity (Tree Trays, 2017). Therefore, the lifespan of these trays and the amount of time it takes to recover the expense is well worth the investment. Moreover, the installation of these trays also saves money on the use of chemical, mechanical, and manual weeding practices because the demand for weed control is well reduced (Agassi, n.d). Also, because the trays produce and prevent water loss, the demand for water or irrigation is reduced, leading to less salt accumulation on the soil surface (Agassi, n.d.).

Negative implications and Alternative products

Indigenous practices, before products like the Tal-Ya tray, consisted of placing porous rocks around a crop to collect dew (Kloosterman, 2009). This technique is effective and very cheap, but it is labour intensive and requires heavy lifting. Since the fruit industry in Africa often consists of women, this indigenous practice may not be used by many fruit farmers. The design of Tal-Ya trays was taken from this ancient practice and developed into an easier and lighter product that can be used by all (Kloosterman, 2009).

Another indigenous practice used for water conservation is the Negarim microcatchment concept; basins are created and shaped like a diamond surrounded by embarkments made of soil (FAO, n.d). In the corner of each basin, water is collected into holes or pits and infiltrated into the root zone of the soil (FAO, n.d). This technique is useful for conserving water, but it does not decrease pesticide use/exposure and is only appropriate in semi-arid and high rainfall environments (UF Berlin, n.d). Another downside to this technique is that the soil must be deep enough for the construction of the water-collecting pits and requires continuous maintenance to prevent soil erosion and other vegetation from growing (UF Berlin, n.d). It is costly and takes one day to build two units, whereas the installation of one Tal-Ya tray takes one minute (FAO, n.d).

Groasis Waterboxx® is another product consisting of a box that captures and stores rainwater around a plant (PopTech, 2010). This product can store water that will feed a plant for an entire year (PopTech, 2010). However, a downside of this product is that it is difficult to use on hillsides (PopTech, 2010). One Groasis Waterboxx® costs $38 (USD) which is relatively expensive for a farmer in Africa (Groasis, 2021).

Another product competing with Tal-Ya trays is plastic mulch. It is applied around crops to increase soil temperature, weed control, and decrease water evaporation (Eisen, 2011). Conversely, it is an expensive product and unfortunately prevents rainfall from penetrating through to the soil (Eisen, 2011). Additionally, it is labour intensive and expensive for setting up and removal and must be replaced more often than Tal-Ya trays (Eisen, 2011). Because rainfall cannot penetrate through the plastic mulch, run-off, and contamination into surrounding environments is a concern (Eisen, 2011).

There is a concern of Tal-Ya trays breaking or cracking in the hot sun. Tal-Ya trays contain an aluminum additive that protects the trays from temperature fluctuations between day and night (Kloosterman, 2009). Moreover, the plastic material is UV protected allowing it to handle harsh full sunlight (Tree Tray, 2017). Tal-Ya trays can be shipped to African farmers but there is currently no distribution center located there. They are currently sold in Israel, Chile, Georgia, the U.S, Sri Lanka, and China (Tal-Ya, n.d). However, a nearly identical product is sold in South Africa called Tree-Trays.

Additional information and resources

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8eoPFj_WbF0 Introduction into the Tal-Ya Agriculture Solutions including benefits and features of the product

https://www.treetrays.co.za Alternative product to Tal-Ya trays sold in Africa

https://www.treetrays.co.za/buy-now/ Website that takes you to order Tree-trays (an alternative product sold in Africa)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOmyUkDfliY Video showing how to easily install Tal-Ya trays

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/323656690_Securing_Water_and_Land_in_the_Tana_Basin_a_resource_book_for_water_managers_and_practitioners Short book containing multiple water conserving techniques adapted by developing countries including Tal-Ya trays

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJCCXaIz3xc Information on an alternative product called the Groasis Waterboxx®

https://manualzz.com/doc/6714975/tal-ya-user-guideline Tal-Ya user manual with set-up and maintenance instructions

References

1. Agassi, M. (n.d.). Advantages of the use of Tal Ya trays in the agricultural system. Tal-Ya Water Technologies Ltd. Retrieved from http://www.tal-ya.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Advantages-of-the-use-of-TalYa-trays-in- the-agricultural-system.pdf

2. Eisen, R. (2011). The Ubiquitous use of Plastic Mulch in Organic Systems. Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia. Retrieved from https://www.dal.ca/faculty/agriculture/oacc/en-home/about/about-oacc/documents/newspaper-articles/newsarticles-2011/newsarticle-2011-plastic-mulch.html

3. Falkenmark, M. (1989). The Massive Water Scarcity Now Threatening Africa: Why Isn't It Being Addressed? AMBIO, 18(2), 112–missing 118. https://www.jstor.org/stable/pdf/4313541.pdf

4. FAO (n.d.) Water harvesting techniques. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome, Italy. Retrieved from https://www.fao.org/3/u3160e/u3160e07.htm

5. FAO (2017) The future of food and agriculture Trends and challenges. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome, Italy. Retrieved from https://www.fao.org/3/i6583e/i6583e.pdf

6. UF Berlin (n.d.) Microcatchment water harvesting. Freie Universitat Berlin, Berlin, Germany. Retrieved from https://www.geo.fu-berlin.de/en/v/iwrm/Implementation/technical_measures/Water-harvesting-techniques/micro_catchment/index.html

7. UF Berlin (n.d.) Main characteristics, benefits, disadvantages and resilience to climate variability. Freie Universitat Berlin, Berlin, Germany. Retrieved from https://www.geo.fuberlin.de/en/v/iwrm/Implementation/technical_measures/Water-harvesting-techniques/micro_catchment/main_benefits_disadvantages_micro/index.html

8. Groasis. (2021). Waterboxx® plant cocoon 3-pack. Retrieved from https://www.groasis.com/shop/consumers/plant-trees-in-a-water-saving-way/waterboxx-3-pack.html

9. Holtz, L., and Golubski, C. 2021. Addressing Africa’s extreme water insecurity. Brookings, Washington, DC. Retrieved from https://www.brookings.edu/blog/africa-in-focus/2021/07/23/addressing-africas-extreme-water-insecurity/


10. IFPRI (2010) IFPRI study examines the dimensions of Africa’s irrigation problem. International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC. Retrieved from a. https://www.ifpri.org/blog/irrigating-africa

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