Vegetation re-establishment on land previously subject to control of Pteridium aquilinum by herbicide

摘要: Vegetation development after conventional bracken control with herbicide in the uplands is often slow and rarely results of target community. Two experiments were established on contrasting sites to investi- gate cost-effective methods for re-establishment vegeta- tion dominated by Calluna vulgaris (heather), which usual community seen as desired replacement Pteridium aquilinum many land managers. At one site, where grazing intensity was low shelter sufficient prevent rapid litter loss, necessary treatments establish disturb add a source seeds. A difference between contin- ued or relaxation not observed over time-scale experiment. second high minimal, vegetation Rumex acetosella had developed thin but dense layer. To enhance regeneration it sheep grazing, remain- ing layer propagules. nurse crop hindered establishment due its vigorous growth. neither site an initial application fertilizer aid establishment. It possible devise at previous attempts alone have effect develop- ment. However, precise choice used depend- ent management site. High levels livestock prevented establishment, some trampling may breakdown. The ability adjust stocking rates access machinery are critical factors take into account producing effective strategy long-term vegetation.