The Efficacy of Microclimate Shelters in Improving Seedling Survival in Re-establishment of the Clanwilliam Cedar

SYNOPSIS Microclimate shelters were shown to be extremely effective in preventing seedling mortality of the Clanwilliam cedar. Shelters made of white PVC sheeting, corrugated polypropylene and rigid polythene mesh with a transparent polythene covering increased survival rates to between 59 and 72% after the first summer, compared with 4% in the control. No benefit was derived from retaining the shelters for a second summer and prolonged enclosure may predispose seedlings to drought mortality. The use of microclimate shelters could enhance greatly the efficacy of re-establishment programmes.