Can we predict performance and spatial structure of two-species mixtures using only single species information from monocultures?

► We aim to predict performance of species mixtures based only on information of component species. ► Performance of species mixtures in a garden experiment was compared with predictions from a model. ► The simulation model was parameterized based only on monoculture data of five clonal sedges. ► Performance of the mixtures was predicted rather well by the simulation model. ► Single-species parameterization captured most processes determining species behavior in mixtures.