Long-term success of sand grassland regeneration on abandoned croplands: the impact of initial restoration interventions and the surrounding landscape
Abstract
We evaluated the efficacy of three treatment methods in the restoration of sandy grasslands on abandoned fields, 16 years after the initial interventions, in Kiskunság, Central Hungary. We used species richness, vascular plant cover, and the relative cover of target and invasive plant species as indicators. The treatments were conducted on two fields abandoned at different times, between 2002 and 2008. We also investigated the habitat composition and invasion level of the surrounding landscapes. In the long run, seeding proved to be the most effective method for the restoration of sandy grasslands on abandoned fields. Mowing and carbon amendment are recommended as supplementary treatments. Most of the analyzed indicators showed site-specific development, which may be related to the characteristics of the surrounding landscape. Based on our results, we suggest that the restoration of old fields can be triggered by using small seed introduction units.
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