Scotland planted 265,000 montane willows to rebuild mountain scrub, but scientists say seedlings survive best in wet, mossy patches, not on bare ground
Restoration efforts in Scotland's Highlands have focused on planting downy willows for years. New research indicates mossy ground aids seedling survival more than bare soil. This finding may alter future habitat restoration approaches across Europe. Seed production is not the primary barrier to natural regeneration. Protecting wet mossy areas is now seen as vital for mountain willow woodlands.
Restoration efforts in Scotland's Highlands have focused on planting downy willows for years. New research indicates mossy ground aids seedling survival more than bare soil. This finding may alter future habitat restoration approaches across Europe. Seed production is not the primary barrier to natural regeneration. Protecting wet mossy areas is now seen as vital for mountain willow woodlands.
