Establishing the continuous cover forest New forest on bare ground
Native species have good potential for new CCF forests. Either single or mixed species forests can be considered, with nurse trees such as manuka & kanuka (Kunzea ericoides) for shelter, weed suppression, creation of leaf litter, to provide required nitrogen, reduce frost, & encourage birds, with possible firewood income when thinned. Basic site preparation needs consideration including cultivation, soil improvement, weed control & animal control. Some additional moisture in summer is a likely requirement. Once a site is fully stocked with seedlings, releasing (weeding) must be done as frequently as required.
