Winkel and Roundy measured seedling densities, cover and species composition of native plants in plots exposed to mechanical seedbed preparation techniques (root plowing, land imprinting and ripping) prior to seed application and light or heavy cattle trampling (after seed application). Emergence of planted seedlings and native plants was strongly influenced by precipitation patterns and climactic conditions, which may be more important than seedbed preparation techniques in some years. However, in general, seedling emergence for most species was greatest in plots that were exposed to heavy trampling, intermediate in plots exposed to mechanical methods, and lowest in plots exposed to light trampling or no disturbance. Based on these results the authors recommend using heavy cattle trampling or mechanical seedbed preparation to enhance seedling emergence. Authors caution that these results are based on years with heavy or moderate precipitation and may not be applicable in dry years.
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