Successfully restoring a wetland plant community is a difficult task and not always as predictable as we would like. The factors involved in determining which seeds germinate and which of those manage to emerge from the soil are valuable information needed to guide the restoration process in a desirable direction. The requirements for various species to germinate have been studied extensively, however the subsequent life stage has not. For this research project we investigate the environmental filters that affect germinated seeds and the strategies these plant species exhibit to successfully emerge. In doing so, we will examine the germination stage, the germinant stage, and the juvenile stage in the plant regeneration cycle. In participating in this project, you will develop plant identification skills, gain field experience, learn germination trial requirements, and probably get somewhat dirty!
