What's Causing the Mortality in Southern Hardwoods?

Abstract

Widespread dieback and mortality of hardwoods has been noted in the South during recent years. In general, losses have been most severe in certain areas of cottonwood, sweetgum, and black willow. Some damage also has been noted in red oaks, especially Nuttall; and in elms, green ash, sycamore, and some less important species. On uplands, mortality has occurred in sassafras, hickory, sweetgum, oaks, and yellow-poplar. Drought is now understood to be the basic cause. This article discusses some of the conditions associated with drought; and some of the ways in which it kills trees. Some suggestions are made for land and water management to reduce damage.

Citation

Broadfoot, W. M.; Toole, E. R. 1958. What's Causing the Mortality in Southern Hardwoods? Journal of Soil and Water Conservation 13(6):276-277.