© 1986 by Institute of Chartered Foresters
Tree planting in the Falkland Islands
Forestry Commission, Northern Research Station Roslin, Midlothian
The Falkland Islands experience a cool, windy and relatively dry climate. The soil is typically shallow peat over clay, although deeper peat is locally present, and the natural vegetation is grass-heath with no native trees or large shrubs. Climatic and soil conditions, lack of knowledge and inadequate protection have hampered past attempts to establish a wide variety of tree species. Successful results have been largely confined to favourable sites near houses and gardens. A very few sizeable tree plots exist, notably at Hill Cove, Roy Cove, Weddell Island and Carcass Island. Tree planting prospects were appraised during a visit in 1983. The creation of effective shelterbelts appeared feasible, using modern establishment techniques developed in upland Britain, correct species choice, careful site selection, adequate belt width, protection against damage, good technical supervision and patience. The most promising species are Cupressus macrocarpa, Picea sitchensis (Queen Charlotte Islands origin), Pinus contorta (coastal origins only), Pinus radiata and Nothofagus betuloides. Using the same species, limited planting for wood production may also be possible on a very few sheltered, moist, accessible sites. Small scale amenity and shelter planting for houses and gardens is clearly practicable. Imported planting stock will be necessary due to the impracticality of raising sizeable quantities in the Islands.