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Cuvette -  / kyü - vet / - noun

June 19th, 2019

Definition: A “cuvette” is a flat, circular area around a tree which is bordered by a small wall or ridge of soil, forming a basin. A single “cuvette” is made around newly planted seedling trees, while double “cuvettes” are made around adult trees.

Benefits of making and maintaining cuvettes:

● Conserves and concentrates water at the root level. The walls of the cuvettes hold the water around the roots to avoid runoff.

● Helps stabilize adult trees by promoting lateral root growth.

● Aids in the prevention of disease, especially fungus disease, by not concentrating water at the base of the trunk.

● Pest control, especially termites, by keeping mulch and fertilizer away from the trunk.

Learn more about this common agroforestry technique in Module 10 of the Forest Garden Training Manual.