New Zealand has nine native mistletoe species. New Zealand’s mistletoes are hemiparasitic plants which make their own energy through photosynthesis but get water and minerals from their hosts. Mistletoes have undergone large declines or local extinctions in many parts of the country and most species are now threatened. Because of this there is a growing interest in propagating and translocating these species.
However whilst there is some colloquial knowledge on how to propagate these species few empirical studies have been conducted. My study aimed to improve knowledge on best practice techniques for growing mistletoes through propagation experiments using green mistletoe and white mistletoe seeds. I also conducted a review on the status of mistletoes in the Wellington region which involved both literature research and field surveys.
Speaker: Benjamin Wright, Victoria University Wellington.
Part of a monthly programme of talks presented by Forest & Bird Manawatū Branch.
All welcome.
