Seasonal Dynamics in Leaf Area Index in Intensively Managed Loblolly Pine

Abstract

Leaf area index (LAI; leaf area per ground area) was measured monthly or bimonthly for two years (March 1999 to February 2001) with the LAI-2000 in intensively managed plantations of loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) at Eatonton and Waycross GA. Since establishment of the three age classes at each site, the stands have received combinations of complete weed control and annual fertilization. The youngest age class at Eatonton continued to accumulate LAI for the duration of the study, while LAI did not differ significantly among age classes at Waycross. Fertilization caused increases in LAI by as much as a full unit, except in the youngest age class at Eatonton. Seasonal development of LAI from associated hardwoods and shrubs was more evident for the deciduous community at Eatonton than for the evergreen community at Waycross. The LAI-2000 successfully detected differences in LAI due to seasonal change, stages of stand development, stand nutrition, and presence or absence of non-pine woody vegetation.

Citation

Harrington, Timothy B.; Gatch, Jason A.; Borders, Bruce E. 2002. Seasonal Dynamics in Leaf Area Index in Intensively Managed Loblolly Pine. In: Gen. Tech. Rep. SRS–48. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station. pg. 79-80