Root cutting can improve the growth of Leymus chinensis in Songnen Plain

To address Leymus chinensis grassland degradation and dramatic productivity decline in Songnen Plain, we designed experiments with 20 and 30 cm spacing with 5, 10, and 15 cm deep root cuttings based on the L. chinensis clone growth ability characteristics. We analysed the height, density, biological diversity, quantity, and quality characteristics of L. chinensis community. The result showed that all root cutting treatments had different influences on the growth of L. chinensis. The root cutting depths of 5 and 10 cm significantly improved the height and density of L. chinensis and reduced the community diversity index (P<0.05); the 5 cm deep root cutting also showed the best growth improvement of L. chinensis. From these results, we concluded that suitable root cutting treatments can improve the growth of L. chinensis and add value to the management of L. chinensis grassland.