When you plan a revegetation project, there are essential factors to consider before you begin, such as plant selection, weed control, and timing.
A detailed plan is crucial to achieving success. Here’s how to start revegetation, a vital component of a robust anti-erosion project.
Remember the aim of a revegetation project
Are you planning a revegetation project as a component of an anti-erosion plan? Do you want to provide a habitat for wildlife? Perhaps you want an aesthetically-pleasing landscape through a well-maintained garden area? Or the functionality of a windbreak?
Depending on your aim, you will know what species, plant layout, density, and techniques you need to plan for. Clarifying what you hope to achieve will allow you to work toward an ideal outcome.
The earlier, the better
The earlier you make a plan, the better. The program could be one to two years before you begin planting for large or complex projects. Take time to factor in the soil’s current condition, the area’s vegetation history, and the existing plant species.
Consider plant selection
You will need to collect seeds to grow seedlings. Seedlings take time to develop and should be planned for at least one (or even two years) in advance, depending on the project’s complexity regarding the number of plants and species you require and their availability.
Consider the accessibility of the seeds you select, depending on when the parent plant produces them.
Remember to control weeds
Weeds can wreak havoc on your revegetation project with their ability to destroy seedlings and young plants. Implement your weed control plan at least a year before you start planting.
Large weeds may need up to two years of weed control before you begin planting. Timing weed control is crucial as most weeds grow in a particular season and remain dormant in others. At the same time, you also need to treat planting spots when planting, as premature weed control can allow some weed species to develop and add to your costs later on.
Always plan according to the weather
Plan your planting and seeding according to weather conditions. Optimal conditions include enough moisture and warmth.
So generally, winters that are cold and wet (lacking warmth) or summers that are hot and dry (lacking moisture) aren’t good conditions for young plants to thrive. Remember, the ideal time can differ from place to place and even within different areas of a large site.
Plan according to the season
If you are planting in spring, start when it’s warm enough for it not to get frosty. Planting during the late winter can increase viability in drier areas with little rainfall. Areas with high moisture can benefit from planting later in the spring but before the temperatures get too high.
For those planting in autumn, you will want your roots well grown and established before the winter—plant when the soil is damp enough for survival from initial autumn rains. Planting in autumn is preferred for drier climates.
Areas with high rainfall can impact the survival of seedlings planted in autumn as they may not be hardy enough to make it through the winter. In arid climates, planting seedlings and sowing seeds in the winter can sometimes be beneficial, especially if direct seeding particular types that need the cold to facilitate germination.
What’s next?
Whether on an extensive community scale or an individual garden, revegetation is a great way to revive a depleted landscape. Foresight and careful planning of a revegetation project can substantially improve your chances of success and reduce issues that can crop up along the way.
These are just the first steps in the initial planning of your revegetation project. You will also need to explore areas such as types of irrigation, preservation, maintenance, and much more.