Cultural Treatments Influence Hardwood Growth and Foliar Nutrient Concentration on a Minor Stream Bottom Site

Abstract

Seedlings or cuttings of nine species of hardwoods were planted on a minor stream bottom (Aeric Fluvaquents) in southeast Arkansas and mowed or disked several times annually for 4 years. Disking to eliminate competition significantly increased heights and diameters of all, and survival of some, species. Soil nitrogen, organic matter, and pH were significantly lowered in disked plots than in mowed. Cultural treatments did not affect soil phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. More water was available for tree growth where all competition from other vegetation was removed. On disked plots, trees had significantly higher foliar nitrogen concentrations than trees on mowed plots. Cultural treatments did not affect foliar concentrations of phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Foliar nitrogen level for most species was below the 2.0-percent level recommended for the best growth of cottonwood and sycamore, indicating more research with other species on different sites is needed before minimal foliar nutrient concentrations are determined.

Citation

Kennedy, Harvey E. 1985. Cultural Treatments Influence Hardwood Growth and Foliar Nutrient Concentration on a Minor Stream Bottom Site. Research Paper SO-RP-215. New Orleans, LA: USDA-Forest Service, Southern Forest Experiment Station. 9 p.