January 16 2025, Jojanneke Bijkerk, Cruydt-Hoeck, Netherlands
On January 16, 2025, the EXPBIO project launched its Regional Seed Mixes for Flower Strips Webinar Series. The event brought together participants from across the North Sea Region to discuss innovative approaches to biodiversity restoration through the use of native seed mixes.
Key Speaker Highlights
The webinar featured Jojanneke Bijkerk from Cruydt-Hoeck, a pioneer in producing and distributing local native seeds for over 20 years. She shared her extensive experience in:
- The collection, production, and cleaning of native seeds.
- The importance of genetic diversity and local adaptation for successful ecosystem restoration.
- Strategies for ensuring sustainable soil management during seed production.
Jojanneke emphasized the ecological value of local seeds, noting that native plants are better adapted to regional climates and provide vital support to local organisms, including insects and soil microorganisms.
Participant Questions and Insights
The Q&A session shed light on restoration challenges, such as:
- The role of soil microbiomes in maintaining seed vitality.
- Strategies to prevent genetic pollution and maintain biodiversity during restoration efforts.
- Practical tips for maintaining biodiversity in restored meadows.