Figure 29. Young dune initiated by seashore elder. 



is known to predict future use but the plant can be transplanted and con- 

 tribute to attaining a more natural dune community. Community stability 

 would be increased where it can be successfully introduced. It can grow 

 throughout the pioneer and most of the intermediate zones. 



Further research is needed for firm suggestions or recommendations. 

 Three types of cuttings have been planted. Rooted stems taken from fore- 

 dune plants have survived better than unrooted stems. Rooted cuttings in 

 peat pots were more susceptible to wind erosion but those that survived 

 grew faster than bare cutting. Woody stems were better transplants than 

 soft (new growth) stems (Colosi, et al., in preparation, 1978). 



Seedlings only establish in areas of little sand movement and favor- 

 able moisture. Transplanting is successful on sand flats with a high 

 water table. Transplanting to high, dry sites is not recommended. Sea- 

 shore elder does not invade established foredunes but continues to grow 

 with them after earlier establishment at lower elevations. 



(h) Pennywort {Hydro aotyle sp.) . This is a very effective 

 sand-stabilizing broad- leaf plant. It is widely distributed throughout 

 the region. It is tolerant of dune conditions, responsive to fertiliza- 

 tion, and can be planted easily by sprigging. It is primarily a stabi- 

 lizer rather than a builder because the round, fleshy leaves grow very 

 close to the sand surface and provide only a few centimeters of trapping 

 capacity at any one time. When only stabilization is needed, it can be 

 sprigged in the same manner as Bermuda grass and fertilized like bitter 

 panicum and sea oats. 



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