Microsite factors influencing Eucalyptus regeneration in temperate woodlands

Abstract

Natural regeneration of Eucalyptus is a major problem for the restoration and preservation of temperate woodlands. South-eastern Australia experienced a period of above average rainfall from mid-2010 to early 2011, creating favourable conditions for localised Eucalyptus regeneration. We conducted a case-control study comparing sites where natural regeneration from seed was present and absent. Vegetation cover, soil condition and hydrophobicity, as well as shelter objects and landscape position, were recorded to identify what influences natural regeneration from seed. Using conditional logistic regression, we found the odds of regeneration occurring increased with uphill slope angle and herbaceous cover. Our results suggest that, during periods of high rainfall, stable microsites that capture seed and resources are most likely to support Eucalyptus regeneration.