So, you want a Rimu forest, or perhaps a Miro or Kauri forest? Why can’t you just plant these majestic trees directly and skip the Manuka or other species? The answer lies in understanding how native forests naturally grow and thrive.
The Role of Pioneering Species
Native forests don’t start with the big, long-lived trees. Instead, they begin with what we call colonizing or pioneering species. These are the fast-growing plants that can handle exposed conditions like wind, sun, and frost. Examples include Manuka, Pittosporum, and Cabbage Trees. These species establish quickly and create a protective canopy, which is crucial for the next stage of forest development.
Creating the Right Conditions
Under this canopy, the slower-growing, long-lived trees like Rimu and Kahikatea can germinate and grow. These trees prefer to start their lives in the shade, protected by the pioneering species above them. The pioneers create a microclimate that shields the young Rimu and Kahikatea from harsh elements, allowing them to establish and thrive over time.
Patience and Process
It might be tempting to skip straight to planting a Rimu forest, but nature’s timeline and processes need to be respected. A Rimu tree, which can live for a thousand years, isn’t in a hurry. It requires a nurturing environment from the start to grow into the magnificent tree you envision. By starting with pioneering species, you’re setting the stage for these grand trees to eventually take over.
Infilling and Natural Progression
Once your pioneering species are established and have created a suitable canopy, you can start infilling with your long-lived trees, or the birds might bring these seeds in. This approach ensures that the big trees grow in the conditions they need, under a canopy that protects and nurtures them.
Building a native forest is a process that mirrors nature’s own methods. By starting with fast-growing pioneers and allowing them to create a canopy, you set the stage for the slow-growing, long-lived trees to flourish. It’s a journey that requires patience, but in the end, you’ll have a resilient and thriving forest that can stand the test of time.
