Tree root research in New Zealand: a retrospective ‘review’ with emphasis on soil reinforcement for soil conservation and wind firmness

Background: Trees and forests have been used in New Zealand to reduce erosion, particularly from rainfall–triggered landslides, gullying, earthflows. Most tree root research has conducted during the life of Journal Forestry Science, with much published it. Methods: We undertook a retrospective ‘review’ focusing on soil reinforcement its application for erosion control, slope stability assessment, understanding forests. The grey literature was searched using common search terms relevant papers assessed. international not reviewed but helped provide context studies. Results: Results were aggregated into broad topic areas key findings summarised. Where multiple studies existed particular species, results are presented by species. Selected data enable inter-species comparisons, reader is directed additional or original study. Conclusions: focused mostly description simple measurements support applied structure function. Nonetheless, such made valuable global contribution addition improving management Zealand’s Studies show that generally, exotic species outperform indigenous most empirical metrics other than tensile strength. A combination both lateral vertical roots provides best stability. Future should focus acquiring more field improvements dealing spatial temporal variability model development. Practical tools land managers target right places vegetation (species, amount, density) pressing need as changing climate way we manage natural hazards like floods wildfires.