Long-term experimental restoration in a calcareous grassland: Identifying the most effective restoration strategies

► Propagule and microsites presence are limited factors for grassland restoration. ► We conducted a long-term study to show the effect of grazing and seed addition. ► The most marked differences were encountered between non-grazed and grazed plots. ► Many species are unaffected by management application. ► Natural regeneration with adequate grazing is the best approach to restoration.