Co-seeding grasses and forbs supports restoration of species-rich grasslands and improves weed control in ex-arable land.

ABSTRACT: Sowing is widely used for the restoration of species-rich grasslands but still there are knowledge gaps regarding the most suitable application of different seed mixtures. We tested the effect of seed mixtures application timing on the establishment of sown forbs and weed control. 36 experimental plots with nine sowing treatments were established in an abandoned cropland in Hungary. Grass-seeds, diverse forb seed mixture and the combination of the two were applied: diverse forb mixture was sown simultaneously or 1, 2 or 3 years after grass sowing, in plots sown previously with grass or in empty plots (fallows). All sowing treatments supported the rapid establishment of the sown species in large cover and hampered weed encroachment. Forbs performed better when sown into fallows than in gras

SUBMITTER: Kiss R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9732298 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature