Native woodland creation projects frequently experience high levels of sapling mortality across both coniferous and broadleaf species. Progress towards afforestation targets, and the ecological and societal benefits they underpin, relies on the successful establishment of young woodlands. Consequently, identifying management strategies that improve early survival and growth of native tree species is a key priority.

R Paterson’s PhD project investigates how ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungal inoculation, ground preparation, and fertilisation influence tree growth and survival. The project will deliver an analysis on a commercial ECM fungal inoculant and will provide practical recommendations for the use of fungal inoculants in comparison to and in combination with standard planting practices.

Research objectives:

• Quantify how combinations of inoculation, cultivation, and fertiliser affect the community composition of ECM fungi colonising sapling roots.
• Test whether there is a link between certain ECM fungal species or groups, and sapling performance under these management practices.
• Provide data to inform woodland establishment practices and reduce risks associated with tree establishment in the first 2 years after planting.

This research will generate valuable data which may be used as case studies reflecting the use of this novel management technique at 3 sites across Scotland. This will help to inform future afforestation initiatives.