Comparison of cultivation and establishment of different xerophyte species for restoration and enhancement of vegetation in arid lands

In this study, species of Salsola rigida, Seidlitzia rosmarinus, Atriplex canescens and Anabasis setifera were investigated to identify appropriate species for planting together with Haloxylon ammodendron. This research was aimed to use spaces among shrub species and to enhance the ecosystems in which H. Ammodendron species are distributed. The study was performed in a randomized complete blocks design with three replications and six treatments at research station of natural resources of Semnan. The measured traits were included annual growth (measuring the thickest branch, flowering branch and the length of horizontal branches), forage yield and seedling establishment. Results of analysis of variance showed that there were no significant differences among blocks. A significant difference was observed for seedling establishment at 1% level of probability. High growth and canopy cover of H. ammodendron significantly differed with other species. A. setifera, S. rosmarinus and A.canescens were respectively in the best position in term of number of sub-branches. This feature is important in controlling erosion and resistance to grazing. H. ammodendron, S. rigida and S. rosmarinus showed suitable condition in terms of forage yield. No significant differences were observed for seedling establishment. Maximum number of the established species were recorded for A.canescens, S.rigida, N.schoberi, A.setifera, S.rosmarinus and H.ammodendron, respectively.