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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Oxford, Mississippi » National Sedimentation Laboratory » Water Quality and Ecology Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #181904
Title: SURVIVAL OF SALIX NIGRA CUTTINGS PLANTED FOR RIVERBANK AND RIPARIAN ZONE RESTORATION

Author
item PEZESHKI, S - UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS
item Shields Jr, Fletcher

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 6/1/2005
Publication Date: 6/15/2005
Citation: Pezeshki, S.R., Shields Jr, F.D. 2005. Survival of salix nigra cuttings planted for riverbank and riparian zone restoration [abstract]. Society of Wetland Scientists 26th Annual Meeting. p. 151.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Field studies were conducted to evaluate survival of black willow (Salix nigra) cuttings planted for riverbank erosion control and riparian zone restoration. Study sites were located on eroding streambanks along three unstable streams in northern Mississippi. Planted cuttings were 2.5-3 m long and had diameter of 2.5-7.5 cm. Soil texture, redox potential, depth to water table, willow survival and growth were monitored for 2-3 years after planting. Study sites had a wide range of soil texture and moisture regimes. At all study sites, the best conditions for cuttings were provided at moderate elevations where the water table fluctuated around 50-60 cm beneath the surface. Generally, cuttings grown in silty-clay soils displayed low survival and growth in comparison to those grown in sandy soils, which were less likely to display low redox potential. Habitats characterized by both sandy soils and adequate moisture led to high survival and growth. Data also revealed interactions between elevation above the water table and soil texture. At low elevation, plots containing high sand had higher survival rates and growth than low sand plots. In contrast, plots located at high elevation characterized by high sand content showed low survival and growth as compared to plots with low sand content. Results indicated that while many factors influence survival of willow cuttings planted on a restoration site, soil texture and moisture regime are key factors that govern plant success. These findings suggest that certain site criteria are useful and could be utilized for pre-planting site evaluations. Such approach could lead to improved restoration success.