seed germination and seedling survival were monitored in the field. Experiments on selected species were carried out in the field and nursery to determine the effects of high light and low moisture on seed germination and the effect of above-ground weed interference on seedling performance in the first year. Three species are compared here to demonstrate how systematic study of regeneration processes can be of use in devising strategies to accelerate tree regeneration in deforested areas. Despite high levels of production of Beilschmiedia sp. seeds, the low rate of seed dispersal limited seedling recruitment in the clearing. In addition, seed germination was sharply reduced by lack of rainfall and the seedlings were highly susceptible to scorching by direct sunlight.