Research into sandalwood (Santalum spicatum) regeneration establishment in the semi-arid and arid regions of Western Australia

Abstract

At present, sandalwood (Santalum spicatum) harvesting occurs mainly from wild stands in the semi-arid and arid regions (typical annual rainfall 150-300 mm) of Western Australia. Wild sandalwood regeneration in these regions has been low since landuse change associated with European settlement. This is due to factors including drought, poor seed dispersal and grazing.

The objective of the study was to improve germination and establishment of sandalwood through understanding the relationship with rainfall and investigating soil and seed preparation techniques to utilize trace moisture levels. Two 25 Hectare plots either side of the semi-arid - arid divide were located. Into the plots 16 repetitions of the control and 96 repetitions of treatments were installed with a total of 5,600 seeds per year. Rainfall and other weather parameters were recorded at each site with an automated solar powered weather station. The study was replicated in 2008 and 2009.

The study concluded that there was a statistically significant relationship between germination and rainfall with the threshold proposed to be 264 mm per year. It also concluded that there was a statistically significant relationship between germination and soil preparation with the measures of ripping crust forming soils prior to sowing and the construction of water harvest banks (limans) having a positive effect. Information gained from these studies has led to the Western Australian State Government implementing a specialized seeding programme to increase sandalwood regeneration in the semi-arid region.