First-year losses of Pinus mugo seed and seedlings on an exposed high-country subsoil

Authors: N.J. Ledgard
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 1979, Issue N.Z.J.For. 24(1) 1979, pp 90-100, May 1979
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

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Abstract: Major first-year seed and seedling losses resulting from the direct sowing of pine seed on to an exposed subsoil at 850 m altitude were attributed to birds (100% in unprotected plots), failure of emerging radicle to penetrate the subsoil (15%), insect attack (15%), and frost heave (44%). Losses of lesser significance were caused by mice.
Techniques for minimising losses are discussed. Coating seeds with repellents and fungicides could reduce losses due to birds and fungi, but effective repellents for mice and insects are not yet available.
By sowing earlier in the winter, seed burial should be more complete by spring. This would decrease losses to birds and assist the seedling radicle to penetrate the soil.
Cover is essential to protect seedlings from frost heave. The most practical way of providing cover is by sowing a sward of grasses and legumes.

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