Accumulation and Distribution of Dry Matter and Nutrients in Aigeiros Poplar Plantations

G. L. Switzer; L. E. Nelson; James B. Baker

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Accumulation and Distribution of Dry Matter and Nutrients in Aigeiros Poplar Plantations

Informally Refereed

Authors:

G. L. Switzer, L. E. Nelson, James B. Baker

Year:

1976

Type:

Scientific Journal

Station:

Southern Research Station

Source:

In: Proceedings of the Symposium on Eastern Cottonwood and Related Species. 359-369.

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Abstract

Patterns of accumulation of dry matter and nutrients through 20 years in Aigeiros poplar plantations are strongly influenced by mode of plantation culture. Accumulation of both dry matter and nutrients in closely spaced thinned plantations is linear through age 12 to 14, after which accumulation declines and then stabilizes. In contrast, dry matter and nutrient accumulation in the widely spaced unthinned plantations accelerates through age 10 and is linear throughout the remaining 10 years. At 20 years the dry matter production of the close and widely spaced plantations is 21 and 36 percent greater, respectively, than natural stands. The stems of the widely spaced unthinned plantations contain greater quantities of all nutrients at harvesting than the other cultural systems, thus causing greater nutrient drain. Black poplar plantations have twice the nutrient requirements of loblolly pine plantations through age 16. Debarking on the site is suggested to conserve nutrients.

Keywords

Populus deltoides, Euramericana hyrids, Pinus taeda, plantation management

Citation

Switzer, G. L.; Nelson, L. E.; Baker, James B. 1976. Accumulation and Distribution of Dry Matter and Nutrients in Aigeiros Poplar Plantations. In: Proceedings of the Symposium on Eastern Cottonwood and Related Species. 359-369.