Reforestation success can be enhanced by improving tree planting methods. (15th June 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Preece, Noel D.; van Oosterzee, Penny; Lawes, Michael J.
• Is Part Of: Journal of environmental management. Volume 336(2023)
• Publication Date: 2023-06-15
• Subjects: Planter effect -- Sapling survival -- Herbicide treatment; Environmental policy -- Periodicals; Environmental management -- Periodicals; Environment -- Periodicals; Ecology -- Periodicals; 363.705
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.117645
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0301-4797

Abstract

Abstract: Successful cost-effective reforestation plantings depend substantially on maximising sapling survival from the time of planting, yet in reforestation programs remarkably little attention is given to management of saplings at the planting stage and to planting methods used. Critical determinants of sapling survival include their vigour and condition when planted, the wetness of the soil into which saplings are planted, the trauma of transplant shock from nursery to natural field soils, and the method and care taken during planting. While some determinants are outside planters' control, careful management of specific elements associated with outplanting can significantly lessen transplanting shock and improve survival rates. Results from three reforestation experiments designed to examine cost-effective planting methods in the Australian wet tropics provided the opportunity to examine the effects of specific planting treatments, including (1) watering regime prior to planting, (2) method of planting and planter technique, and (3) site preparation and maintenance, on sapling survival and establishment. Focusing on sapling root moisture and physical protection during planting improved sapling survival by at least 10% (>91% versus 81%) at 4 months. Survival rates of saplings under different planting treatments were reflected in longer-term survival of trees at 18–20 months, differing from a low of 52% up to 76–88%. This survival effect was evident more than 6 years after planting. Watering saplings immediately prior to planting, careful planting using a forester's planting spade in moist soil and suppressing grass competition using appropriate herbicides were critical to improved plant survival. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: Low sapling survival frustrates reforestation success and causes high replacement costs. Fibrous roots of saplings can be damaged when handling tubestock causing hydraulic shock. Tree planters can improve survival of saplings by improving planting technique to protect roots. Saturating roots of saplings in tubes and planting in wet soil are essential. Survival is improved by not leaving tubestock in the field for hours or between planting days.