Site and canopy characteristics associated with oak advance reproduction in mature oak-hickory forests in the ridge and valley province in Tennessee

Abstract

To investigate hypotheses regarding effects of competitors and site quality on oak regeneration, we documented site factors and oak seedling composition, size, and abundance in the Ridge and Valley Province of Tennessee. Small oak seedlings were most abundant on productive soils and mesic landform positions, whereas large oak seedlings were most abundant on less productive soils and drier landform positions. Patterns in the abundance of large oak seedlings and saplings were consistent with the hypothesis that oaks are most competitive on drier and poorer sites. Results were mixed with regard to existing hypotheses concerning particular competitors and competition for light.

Parent Publication

• 13th Central Hardwoods Forest Conference

Citation

Chadwell, Leslie S.; Buckley, David S. 2003. Site and canopy characteristics associated with oak advance reproduction in mature oak-hickory forests in the ridge and valley province in Tennessee. In: Van Sambeek, J. W.; Dawson, Jeffery O.; Ponder Jr., Felix; Loewenstein, Edward F.; Fralish, James S., eds. Proceedings of the 13th Central Hardwood Forest Conference; Gen. Tech. Rep. NC-234. St. Paul, MN: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, North Central Research Station: 228-236