Luciano L. Eichholz’s scientific contributions

Direct seeding proved to cost less than planting seedlings (approximately US$2000/ha, compared with US$5000/ha) and to be more practical, since seeds are easier to carry and to plant. To plant one hectare, approximately 60 kilos of seeds of native trees (200 000 seeds) are mixed with 100 000 seeds of annual and subperennial legumes and sand, in a mixture called muvuca. The legumes help to create a multilayer vegeta- tion, reducing niches for invasive grasses. Their root systems can contribute to soil aeration and decompaction, enhancing water absorption. Their ability to fix nitrogen and their intense leaf fall contribute to enhancing nutrient cycling and soil fertility. However, if they grow too densely, they can shade out the tree seedlings, slowing tree growth. If this occurs, manual or chemical weeding or thinning will be necessary. Ninety-one of the native tree species planted have germinated and survived droughts of up to six months without irrigation. Tree populations of between 2500 and 32 250 trees/ha have been established on the reseeded areas. The campaign has contributed to the restoration of 2565 ha of riparian forest at 238 sites until 2014.