Post-mining re-establishment of native heaths (Epacridaceae)

Summary

Native heaths (Epacridaceae) fail to rehabilitate consistently in sufficient numbers to guarantee a return to pre-mined floristic diversity and biomass.

On average, less than 10% of heath species are recovered after mining.

A wide range of field, nursery and laboratory experiments were conducted to investigate the causes of poor regeneration and possible remedies.

Keywords: heaths, Epacridaceae, regeneration, propagation, seed biology