Assessing the 2023 plantings
Carbon Positive published their formal assessment of the 2023 plantings. Here is a summary:
The overall average height was 0.24m and overall maximum tree height was 0.90m.
Southern Paddock:
The average stocking density was calculated to be 613 trees/ha. Overall, tree health is good (average of 3.64/5), although some drought stress was observed. Of the 35 species that were planted (seedlings + direct seed), a total of 14 unique species were identified in the 3 monitoring plots. Most common species observed within the plots were Eucalyptus sp., Melaleuca hamulosa and Acacia assimilis. Some Acacia species that had emerged from seed were too small to ID.
Northern Paddock:
The average stocking density was calculated to be 1,373 trees/ha. Overall, tree health is excellent (4.74/5) and very little pest damage was observed. Excellent germination from direct seeding, particularly in the southwest plots (sandy soils). Of the 40 species that were planted (seedlings and direct seed), a total of 24 unique species were identified in the 9 monitoring plots. Note that Eucalyptus were identified to the genus level only, therefore, actual unique species count may be higher (up to 29). Most common species observed within the plots were Acacia assimilis, Acacia neurophylla and Eucalyptus.