Phytotoxic grass residues reduce germination and initial root growth of ponderosa pine

W. J. Rietveld

Treesearch

Phytotoxic grass residues reduce germination and initial root growth of ponderosa pine

Informally Refereed

Authors:

W. J. Rietveld

Year:

1975

Type:

Research Paper

Station:

Rocky Mountain Research Station

Source:

Res. Pap. RM-153. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Forest and Range Experiment Station. 15 p.

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Download (PDF 1.33 MB): https://research.fs.usda.gov/download/treesearch/23932.pdf

Abstract

Extracts of green foliage of Arizona fescue and mountain muhly significantly reduced germination of ponderosa pine seeds, and retarded speed of elongation and mean radicle length. Three possible routes of release of the inhibitor were investigated: (1) leaching from live foliage, (2) root exudation, and (3) overwinter leaching from dead residues. The principal route remains uncertain. The ecological implications of the inhibitory substance are discussed.

Keywords

Muhlenbergia montana (Nutt) Hitchc, Festuca arizonica Vasey, Pinus ponderosa Laws, allelopathy, phytotoxic substances, plant competition, chemical ecology

Citation

Rietveld, W. J. 1975. Phytotoxic grass residues reduce germination and initial root growth of ponderosa pine. Res. Pap. RM-153. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Forest and Range Experiment Station. 15 p.