RESTORATION TECHNIQUES FOR SPHAGNUM-DOMINATED PEATLANDS

Ombrotrophic peatlands in North America are harvested mainly for horti cultural purposes. Following intense exploitation, these peatlands are generally abandoned to natural regeneration. The abandoned sites usua lly remain barren or poorly revegetated by a few vascular plants for s everal years. The post-harvested sites are not usually recolonized by Sphagnum species (pear mosses), which are the key species to restore p eatland functions. The objective of this study was to develop restorat ion techniques for post-harvested peatlands. The experiments centred o n Sphagnum reintroduction. since peat mosses are responsible for peat accumulation. Vegetative Sphagnum fragments were used as diaspores. Va rious methods of Sphagnum reintroduction were tested to ensure reliabl e colonization. A microrelief formed of ridges and depressions provide d humid conditions in depressions which favored Sphagnum establishment . Reintroducing Sphagnum diaspores in combination with such companion plant species as Eriophorum angustifolium also had a positive effect o n the survival of peat mosses. A phosphorus amendment led to improved establishment of Sphagna and companion plant species.