Differential Survival Rates in Plant Height Categories: A Comparative Study of 2–3 Feet And 10–14 Feet Plants in Ecological Restoration Efforts

Abstract

This study conducted at UPUMS Saifai, India, from July 2023 to December 2024, we investigated the differential survival rates of 2–3 feet and 10–14 feet plants in ecological restoration efforts. A total of 2,500 saplings (2–3 feet) and 75 taller plants (10–14 feet) were planted and monitored for one year, with survival rates analyzed using frequency distribution and a Chi-Square Test of Independence. Results revealed that 2–3 feet plants had a significantly lower survival rate (5%) compared to 10–14 feet plants (90%), with primary causes of mortality for shorter plants including human interference (trampling, weed removal errors), decay, and chemical exposure, while taller plants showed greater resilience. Statistical analysis confirmed a significant difference in survival rates (χ² = 368.70, p < 0.0001). These findings highlight the benefits of using taller saplings in urban and degraded landscapes to enhance ecological restoration outcomes, underscoring the importance of selecting appropriate plant sizes and addressing environmental challenges to improve afforestation success.