Many native plants may be well adapted to conditions of low nutrient status, and they likely reduce potential adverse effects on biodiversity that may arise from seeding introduced plant cultivars in forest and range ecosystems. Choosing the proper species for a particular situation requires that the characteristics of the species be matched with the site conditions and rehabilitation objectives. Attributes such as root form, reproductive system, growth form, timing, and adaptability all affect the suitability of plants for a particular site and objective. See Appendix 2 for more information on developing grass and legume seed mixes. Seeding is inexpensive, fast, easy.
Many different varieties are available for specific conditions or to meet a variety of objectives.
Seeding promptly after disturbance provides an almost continuous ground cover. Dense root mats formed by some species are very favorable for stabilizing soil and developing soil structure. Deep-rooted species are highly suitable for reducing soil moisture levels where slope stability or site wetness is a problem. Some species establish rapidly and yet are short-lived, thereby reducing competition over the longer term. Many species of grasses and legumes are widely adapted.