A study by Chinese researchers published in Seed Biology reveals surprising strength in planted forests — they contain more seeds in their soil than natural forests. This underground gold mine may transform current forest restoration in a warming world.

Analysis of 920 China forest sites, natural and planted, revealed that planted forests have markedly denser soil seed banks. These reserves are critical for regrowth after fires or droughts. While both the forest structure and climate played a role, the biggest impact on seed storage is the soil itself — principally nitrogen and pH levels.

In planted forests, high nitrogen content helped boost seed density. In natural ones, soil pH was the most prominent factor. Temperature and rainfall still contributed — higher values generally lowered seed density — but soil conditions clearly mattered most.

The results suggest that looking below the surface can add value when planning restoration efforts. Enhancing soil nitrogen in planted forests and monitoring pH in natural forests could help them grow back more effectively.

More like this: Balancing flavor and forests