The Effects of Fire on Regeneration of Calluna Vulgaris (L.) Hull. from Seed

Abstract

The conditions experienced by plants during routine moor burning are summarized and their effects on subsequent regeneration of Calluna vulgaris from seed discussed. The principal factors directly affecting germination are the heat experienced and charring. Temperatures of 200oC and above are lethal. Below 160oC stimulation of germination has been demonstrated. The amount of stimulation is related to temperature and period of exposure. Any charring, even if accompanied by non-lethal temperatures, inhibits germination. The habitat factors affected by burning which relate to regeneration are light, soil and air temperatures, moisture, pH, and the nature of the seed-bed. Some micro-climatic data from burned and unburned areas are presented and indicate that there are greater fluctuations in the temperature and moisture regimes on burned than on unburned areas. Wellmanaged moor burning generally enhances the success of regeneration.