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Effect Of Seedling Size And First-Order Lateral Roots On Early Development Of Northern Red Oak On A Mesic Site: Eleventh-Year Results

Informally Refereed

Abstract

Abstract - The effect of initial first-order lateral root (FOLR) groupings of northern red oak (Quercus rubra) seedlings on a high quality mesic site was followed for eleven years on a shelterwood and a clearcut area. The initial FOLR number groups were empirically determined as low (0 to 6) medium (7 to 12) and high (12). The shelterwood overstory was removed before the beginning of the eighth growing season and a circle (0.9 meter radius) was released around individual oaks in the clearcut. Individuals in the clearcut responded favorably to release, with some obtaining 6 to 8 meter in height by age 11. After the same period mean height from the shelterwood plantings was about 60 centimeter more than their initial height in 1990. It appears that large thrifty northern red oak seedlings can be established in properly controlled clearcut areas provided post harvest control of stumps is completed in a timely fashion. The shelterwood system with artificial regeneration does not appear to be a viable regeneration alternative as tested here.

Citation

Kormanik, Paul P.; Sung, Shi-Jean S.; Kass, Donald; Zarnoch, Stanley J. 2002. Effect Of Seedling Size And First-Order Lateral Roots On Early Development Of Northern Red Oak On A Mesic Site: Eleventh-Year Results. Gen. Tech. Rep. SRS–48. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station. pp 332-337
https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/3139