Plant Material

Abstract

There are several options for helping vegetation get established on your restoration site. One of the most common propagule types is seed, which can be used from existing plants on-site or brought in from another location. Equally common are plants grown in containers of numerous sizes and shapes. Many species can be produced vegetatively and afford a quick and efficient means of establishing a large number of plant specimens on-site with low cost in labor and money. Cuttings, rooted cuttings, and rhizomes are commonly used for many species. Translocation or salvaging of specimen plants or plant assemblages provides an excellent opportunity to put mature individuals on-site quickly along with the soil components of invertebrates and microorganisms. As with other areas of restoration, there are no absolutes on approach. Each type of plant material has advantages and disadvantages that need to be considered in the context of your situation with regard to available funds, labor, space, and time.