Initial growth and development of native Cerrado species seeded directly into various organic substrates under different soil flooding regimes

Abstract

The Cerrado, Brazil's second-largest biome, spans over 200 million hectares and is rich in biodiversity but faces fragmentation and degradation. Ecological restoration of degraded areas is crucial, with direct seeding emerging as an effective and low-cost technique. This method involves depositing seeds directly into the soil, making it adaptable to various conditions. This study evaluated the development of native species sown in different soil types and organic compounds during the ecological recovery of a Permanent Preservation Area (PPA), characterized by dry and flooded areas totaling 0.5 hectares. The degraded spring, impacted by cattle trampling, is located at Sítio Bom Jardim II, in the Teijin Settlement, Nova Andradina-MS. Seeds from nine species were collected, tested for viability, and properly stored before sowing, which took place in both flooded and dry areas. The research aims to understand how these factors influence plant emergence and growth, contributing to the recovery of the Cerrado.