Study

Species introduction through seeds from an old, species-rich hay meadow: effects of management

  • Published source details Losvik M.H. & Austad I. (2002) Species introduction through seeds from an old, species-rich hay meadow: effects of management. Applied Vegetation Science, 5, 185-194.

Actions

This study is summarised as evidence for the following.

Action Category

Sow native grass and forbs

Action Link
Grassland Conservation
  1. Sow native grass and forbs

    A replicated, randomized, paired, controlled study in 1996–1997 in an experimental meadow in Norway (Losvik & Austad 2002) found that sowing grass and forb seeds increased species richness as well as richness of traditional meadow plants. Plant species richness was higher in areas where seeds were sown (23 species/plot) than in areas where no seeds were sown (19 species/plot). Species richness of plants that are indicators of traditional meadow management showed a similar pattern (seeded: 7 species/plot; not seeded: 3 species/plot). In April 1996, the soil of all plots was disturbed using a power harrow and 20 kg of calcium oxide was added. Seeds from a nearby hay barn were sown in six 16-m2 plots and no seeds were sown in six other plots. All plots were mown in August 1996. In July 1997, three 1 x 1 m quadrats were placed in each plot and the presence of all plant species recorded.

    (Summarised by: Philip Martin)

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