Evaluating dynamics of plant species composition and community structure on roadside fill slopes in an arid region

Restoration of degraded roadside slopes in arid environments poses significant challenges and necessitates effective strategies to rehabilitate vegetation and stabilize ecosystems. We evaluated the temporal dynamics of species composition and the efficacy of different artificial measures on plant community structure. Seven native species were used, and three artificial measures were taken, including seeding (S), seeding combined with laying biological geotextiles (SL), and seeding with laying biological geotextiles plus topsoiling (SLT), along with natural recovery as a control (NR). In the second, third, and sixth years post‐restoration, we measured plant species composition, diversity indices, and community structure. Results showed species substitution over time, with shifts in life form (from therophyte to longer‐lived species) and dispersal mode (from barochory to autochory and anemochory). Diversity indices increased overall, and community‐level attributes such as average height, plant cover, and biomass either stabilized or slightly increased. Initially, all artificial measures significantly enhanced plant community structure, but their benefits diminished over time. The SL and SLT measures were particularly effective in the second and third years, respectively. These findings display a temporal gradient in life form and dispersal mode, indicating progressive succession and a transition toward a stable, mature community on roadside slopes. Although artificial measures initially accelerate vegetation establishment, their long‐term benefits are limited, suggesting the need for ongoing management. These findings highlight the importance of combining initial restoration interventions with sustained management strategies to ensure long‐term vegetation stability. Future restoration practices should focus on adaptive approaches that account for successional dynamics and environmental variability.