Autochthonous woody species suitable for bioengineering in mountainous areas of Central Italy

The effects of vegetation on erosion processes are manifest and have been repeatedly reviewed in the past. This study contributes to investigate woody species such as hop hornbeam, common ash and common alder to use in bioengineering works in coastal areas of Tuscany in substitution of the commonly used Salix species, often not surviving in these environments. The experimental approach included the assessment of a propagation protocol in a cold greenhouse and a nursery setup to compare the biotechnical characteristics of the selected species vs. Salix plants. The effects of plant growth promoting bacteria Azospirillum brasilense Sp245 and indole-3-butyric acid on cuttings were investigated. Main physiological and growth parameters of potted plants in nursery confirmed the positive effects of the bacterial treatment; in addition, plant mortality decreased and tolerance to drought increased. In conclusion, Fraxinus and Alnus plants are promising alternatives to willow cuttings in bioengineering works in Mediterranean areas.