Development of an innovative seeder for restoring desert and semi-desert areas in Uzbekistan.
Received: 2026-10-02
Published: 2026-03-02
Abstract
The aim of this study is to provide a scientific basis for an effective approach to the
restoration and improvement of natural pastures through the systematic reseeding of native perennial
plant species, shrubs, and semi-shrubs adapted to arid environments. The proposed approach is
focused on the sustainable recovery of degraded pasture ecosystems by increasing vegetation cover,
improving soil protection, and enhancing the ecological and productive potential of natural grazing
lands under severe desert conditions. For the restoration of sandy soils and degraded pasture areas,
several promising native desert plant species were selected as the primary biological materials,
including the shrubs saxaul and cherkez, as well as the semi-shrub izen (prutnyak). These species are
naturally adapted to dry and desert climates and are characterized by their ability to survive under
limited moisture conditions. Their establishment on degraded sandy lands can contribute to the sta
bilization of mobile soils, reduction of wind erosion, improvement of vegetation density, and gradual
enhancement of the ecological condition and forage capacity of natural pastures. To facilitate the
practical application of this restoration approach, a mechanized sowing technology and corresponding
seeding equipment were developed. The proposed technical solutions and technological process are
protected by patents of the Republic of Uzbekistan, including Patent No. FAP 2670 and Patent No.
FAP 3044. These patented developments provide a technical foundation for the mechanized sowing of desert and pasture plant species under difficult soil and climatic conditions. An experimental
seeder prototype was developed specifically for the mechanized sowing of saxaul and izen seeds.
The machine was designed to provide reliable seed placement and uniform distribution in sandy
soils while considering the specific physical and mechanical characteristics of the seed material and
the technological requirements associated with desert pasture restoration. The design incorporates
technical solutions intended to improve the efficiency and stability of the sowing process under field
conditions. The analysis showed that the purity of the prepared seed material was 20–25%, while
its germination capacity ranged from 40 to 45%. The results demonstrate the practical potential of
combining locally adapted desert plant species with specialized mechanized sowing equipment for the
restoration of degraded natural pastures. The proposed technology can serve as a basis for improving
vegetation establishment on sandy and arid lands, strengthening soil protection, and supporting the
long-term ecological and productive rehabilitation of desert and semi-desert pasture ecosystems.
Keywords
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