Height, diameter, and health status of native sapling trees planted for restoration after invasive tree control in a secondary subtropical forest, Horco Molle, Tucumán, 2021-2023

During a field experiment, data was collected on saplings to evaluate the management of secondary forests affected by the invasion of Ligustrum lucidum. The experiment established six permanent plots, each measuring 240 metres by 140 metres, totalling 3.36 hectares. The plots were arranged in pairs, with one plot designated as a control scenario (no actions applied), and the other treated (L. lucidum control and native tree planting).

After applying mechanical-chemical treatment to invasive tree species, we planted three native species, namely Jacaranda mimosifolia, Solanum riparium, and Tipuana tipu, during the most suitable period to minimize plant stress, considering soil moisture and air temperature. The saplings, taller than 0.30 cm, were purchased from a local gardener who produced them for our experiment. The gardener collected the seeds to produce the saplings in the native forest near our study area. After planting, each sapling was tagged with an ID, and its diameter at the base and height were measured.

Every six months, the health status of all the planted saplings in the treated plots was measured and collected. The data was recorded on field sheets, transferred to spreadsheets, and exported as comma-separated value (CSV) files for deposit into the EIDC.

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Optimising the long term management of invasive species affecting biodiversity, carbon storage, and the rural economy in South America using adaptive management