Abstract
To consider how best to conserve flowering species in the semi-natural grassland of a montane region, we investigated plant species and flowering at sites that underwent different forms of artificial management from 2006 to 2013 at Mt. Amari in Yamanashi Prefecture. The management included simple mowing; mowing with grass removal; and mowing, grass removal, and scratching (three-step treatment) of the topsoil. These forms of management were applied in 3-year cycles in the order listed above. In each year, study plots were subjected to each form of management. A control plot was not managed. Management commenced in October 2005. The number of flowers in the control plot was smaller than in every other management plot. The numbers of flowers in May and June were greatest with grass removal and scratching every year. However, the height of vegetation and cover rates under the scratching treatment decreased after the first year and the height of vegetation in the grass removal treatment decreased after the sixth successive year of management. The extent of flowering after July did not vary with the type of management. Therefore, we are able to suggest a form of management to conserve flowering species. Mowing with grass removal every October should be conducted along trails, which are the major sightseeing areas, to maintain flowering from May to October, with such management continuing for about 6 successive years. In addition, mowing should be conducted every 3 years across a wider area to maintain flowers after July.
