A Case Study on the Growth and Restoration of Native Plant Species in Formerly Utilized Areas: The Gunung Gede Pangrango National Park

Abstract

The success of forest restoration relies on factors such as the extent of damage, environmental constraints, and restoration objectives. When restoring conservation areas, it is crucial to carefully select and cultivate indigenous species to ensure their successful establishment. This study addresses important aspects of restoration outcomes by evaluating the survival rate, diameter growth, height growth, and natural regeneration of eight native tree species: Altingia excelsa, Decaspermum fruticosum, Elaeocarpus sphaericus, Litsea angulata, Manglietia glauca, Schima wallichii, Swietenia mahagoni, and Syzygium polyanthum, which were planted 13, 14, and 15 years ago. Data were collected from five plots measuring 20m × 50m, focusing on individuals of these ages. The results revealed a high overall survival rate of 86.25% to 96%. The diameters of the trees ranged from 13 cm to 29.2 cm, while the heights varied from 10.94 m to 18.99 m. Additionally, the stand volume ranged from 62.8 m3 to 126.0 m3 per ha. All eight species demonstrated the ability to flower and bear fruit, and six species exhibited natural regeneration. Only Altingia excelsa and Toona sureni did not show evidence of progeny generation. These findings underscore the suitability of these native species for forest restoration projects, considering their high survival rates, growth characteristics, and natural regeneration potential.