Establishment of Juncus effusus on peat moss cultivation sites: Laboratory experiment and analysis data from the sphagnum site in Hankhausen

This study investigated the establishment potential of Juncus effusus on various substrates. To this end, a laboratory experiment was set up using two species of sphagnum moss and three treatments: 100% initial coverage, 80% initial coverage, without capitula, and uncovered peat without sphagnum moss. In addition, field data on plant development in Hankhausen were analysed. The contribution of the seeds contained in the sphagnum moss seed to Juncus development was tested in a germination trial of sphagnum moss seed from Hankhausen. Data from earlier germination trials (2008-2009 and 2012) were also evaluated. The results confirm the important role of a Juncus seed bank within the sphagnum moss seed. The germination behaviour of Juncus varies depending on the time of collection. The most important measures for reducing Juncus cover are recommended to be a higher initial cover of sphagnum moss and mowing of the vascular plants before the Juncus seeds mature. A need for further research was identified.

Pagina's: 52, Paperback, Our Knowledge Publishing