Adaptive management of landscapes for climate change: how soils influence the assisted migration of plants

Assisted migration is a strategy with potential to improve the adaptation of flora to climate change. The principal types of assisted migration are outlined in this chapter, with examples of each and a discussion of the relevant abiotic and biotic soil factors and risks that have an impact on the successful translocation of plants. Edaphic factors such as pH, soil moisture, depth play a role in successful establishment and growth of migrated provenances. Biotic factors such as the relationship of ectomycorrhizal fungi with host plants are also important, especially as translocation distances increase. Pathogens in the soil environment can be a constraining factor and a risk to translocation efforts. Landscape-level research, cataloging of relevant provenance trials, and trials providing relevant information for assisted migration in restoration areas are all needed for future progress in managing assisted migration efforts.