Propagation and transplanting techniques for native plant species : living shorelines applications in Atlantic Canada

Abstract

Natural shoreline management practices, such as living shorelines, are being explored for their use as an alternative to traditional armoring methods such as riprap. Literature surrounding living shorelines lacks coherence particularly in regards to what methods are available, which is leading coastal zone managers to rely on incomplete science when considering the living shoreline approach. One of the pivotal methods of living shoreline projects is the addition of vegetation (Spartina spp.) to the low and mid marsh intertidal zones. There are several methods to accomplish this including transplants, seeds and burying wrack material. The best success was found with transplants (both greenhouse grown and harvested from existing marshes) and seeding methods. Understanding how these vegetation addition methods function in Atlantic Canada will aid in the further development of living shorelines in in this area.