Response of Selected Plant Species Seeded on Mule Deer Winter Range

Abstract

A selection of 13 bunchgrasses, 4 legumes, and 2 shrubs were planted in 2 seasons in 5 plant communities within the sagebrush-bunchgrass and juniper zones of the Fort Rock mule herd winter range in south-central Oregon. Rate of establishment averaged 3.9% for all planted species, and it was generally dependent on seeding rate, season, and plant community. Standard crested wheatgrass, Siberian wheatgrass, smooth brome, hard fescue, and antelope bitterbrush established better when planted in the fall. Intermediate wheatgrass, streambank wheatgrass, Ladak alfalfa, and hairy vetch established better when planted in the spring. From 31 to 3% of the plants of standard crested wheatgrass, Siberian wheatgrass, pubescent wheatgrass, hard fescue, and antelope bitterbrush survived to the sixth growing season. Standard crested wheatgrass, Siberian wheatgrass, and pubescent wheatgrass survived best in the juniper/big sagebrush-antelope bitterbrush community, but antelope bitterbrush survived at a slightly higher rate in the juniper/antelope bitterbrush-big sagebrush community.