Physicochemical properties and plant coverage of wood-based growing media on slopes

Abstract

The use of wood waste as substrate for plant growth exemplifies a strategy for turning waste into resources. The overall objective of this research was to evaluate the effects of wood-based growing media on plant cover in a slope area. Moreover, we tried to find out what physicochemical properties affect plant cover on a slope. For treatments, we tested natural soil, soil mixed with wood-based growing medium (1:1, w/w), and wood-based growing medium by itself. Physical and chemical characteristics were evaluated after four months from the date of treatment application to the experimental slope site. Soil coverage with seedlings of Lespedeza cyrtobotrya was measured for plant growth evaluation. Physicochemical properties were altered by mixing the natural soil with wood-based growing medium. Particularly, soil moisture and organic matter contents were significantly changed in soils treated with wood-based growing medium compared to soil alone. We confirmed that plant coverage rate was high when wood-based growing medium was mixed with the natural soil. There was a significant linear relationship between moisture content and CEC (Cation Exchange Capacity) of all growth media tested and plant coverage. This result was expected, as moisture content tends to increase with organic matter content, such as in wood-based growing medium. In conclusion, the high moisture content of the wood-based growing medium was considered effective for plant growth in the experimental slope site, and this wood-based growing medium provides a means to improve the harmony between the slope and the surrounding environment. ? 2018, Korean Society of Wood Science Technology. All rights reserved.