Brazilian native brings growing techniques from rainforest to Nebraska

Kristen Sindelar
Jul 28, 2023
Jul 28, 2023

Brazil native 1.JPEG — Growing lettuce is a passion for Sandro Lopes, who emigrated from Brazil and now lives in David City, Neb.
Submitted photo

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Comunidade. Horta.

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Brazil native 7.jpg — Youth learn about syntropic agriculture while planting seedlings in the rainforest.
Submitted photo courtesy of 4-H Amazon

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Brazil native 6.jpg — These 4-H youth in Brazil help with a gardening project in the rainforest.
Submitted photo courtesy of 4-H Amazon

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Brazil native 2.jpeg — Last year, Sandro Lopes grew 400 potted plants in his backyard in David City, Neb.
Submitted photo

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Brazil native 3.JPEG — A shade structure protects plants from harsh sunlight in Sandro Lopes’ garden, similar to the canopy provided by trees in the rainforest.
Submitted photo

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Brazil native 4.JPEG — A zucchini plant is protected from wind erosion and mulched with strips of bark.
Submitted photo

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Brazil native 5.jpg — Sandro Lopes helped establish 4-H Amazon in Brazil, a program that aims to engage youth in agriculture.
Submitted photo courtesy of 4-H Amazon

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Reporter Kristen Sindelar has loved agriculture her entire life, coming from a diversified farm with three generations working side-by-side in northeastern Nebraska. Reach her at Kristen.Sindelar@midwestmessenger.com.