14 species in Soumoy

Visit to the Soumoy Plot

The PlantC team visited the site on May 16, 2023. We were welcomed by the forest owner. Come on, let’s take you along!

While walking along the forest paths to reach the plot, the forester explained that he had recently purchased the plot, but that for nearly 50 years, there had been no management. When it came time to consider which species to select, the objective of diversification was quickly put on the table. From an old coniferous plantation, the plot now hosts a beautiful diversified reforestation, indicating that to carry out such a project, the primary goal should not be profitability.

We can observe a good recovery of the seedlings, although some replanting was carried out for a few of them. Indeed, the long drought period of 2022 did not spare nearly 500 seedlings. Each listed species was verified during the visit!

Brambles are kept on the ground to protect the seedlings from herbivores. Indeed, the deer’s interest will be diverted to the bramble patch. Moreover, as the shrub is quite thorny, it is less pleasant to approach the tree seedling.

What a pleasant visit! During the walk between the two plots, we observed the footprints on the ground left by forest wildlife: deer, raccoon, … In fact, a deer passed right in front of us!

There will be no more maintenance with the flail mower; the planting is progressing. The birch trees that have spontaneously established themselves will be preserved because they “support” each other.

In the middle of the plot stands a majestic beech tree. It is left in place, “why not leave it so it can still provide shade for the smaller ones? Economically, it has no value. Biologically, yes!” explains the forester.

Protection or not?

The debate is: should the seedlings be protected or not?

The choice has been made not to protect the larch plot, as they are planted densely. Deciduous trees, on the other hand, are more palatable and more expensive. Here, individual protection is necessary in this specific case. It is a compromise, but the forester would be tempted not to protect them in the future.

“Passion for the forest is a family affair! But to successfully carry out a planting today, vigilance remains essential. The major point is to receive seedlings early! And not in February, when we know that spring and summer are now very/too hot.”

The plots are near an open plain on one side, and cultivated fields on the other. The alternation of these diverse ecosystems strongly contributes to the protection and diversification of species. It is important to be able to contain wild boar given the large surrounding crops. Hunting therefore takes place a maximum of twice a year for this purpose.

We leave happy: happy to see that this project is closely monitored, happy for this moment of sharing and learning. Thank you for your contributions and thank you to the forester for his trust.