From farm to field: testing different biocrust cultivation approaches and application techniques in the Sonoran Desert

Drylands are among the most degraded ecosystems globally and are difficult to restore due to limited water availability. Biocrusts are a key component of maintaining soil stability and function in these systems. Since biocrust salvage opportunities are limited, cultivating salvaged biocrusts is a promising method. Previously, biocrusts were cultivated in three different ways: in a greenhouse, in situ layered with shade cloth (“quesadilla”), or in situ with a hoophouse. Our current research objective is to field test methods for establishing the previously cultivated biocrusts. The goals were to (1) compare the efficacy of stabilization treatments for biocrust establishment, (2) test establishment when cultivated biocrusts are transferred with jute compared to scraped-off jute, (3) evaluate field survival and community composition, and (4) investigate plant-biocrust interactions. Psyllium outperformed other stabilization treatments, but all treatments improved biocrust cover compared to the no biocrust control in the first season. Increased cover of biocrusts resulted in higher levels of colonization outside the treated area over time. We found no whole community fungal or bacterial differences across cultivation treatments. Seedling establishment was reduced when applied under biocrust sods but improved under jute without biocrust. Cultivating biocrusts to increase the availability and application of salvaged biocrusts is a promising method for restoration.