6. Weed control
In order to test the effects of weeds on
seed germination and seedling survival, and
insure that all new seedlings were not the product
of existing plants, all vegetation within a 1 meter
diameter of perch bases and control points was
removed prior to plot establishment. On each plot
weeds were then allowed to grow back on 3 perch
points and 3 control points, while the remaining 6
perch points and 6 control points were weeded.
On weeded plots, weeds were removed every
month during the rainy season (May-October) and
as needed during the dry season.