Natural regeneration of Engelmann spruce after clearcutting in the central Rocky Mountains in relation to environmental factors

Robert R. Alexander

Treesearch

Natural regeneration of Engelmann spruce after clearcutting in the central Rocky Mountains in relation to environmental factors

Informally Refereed

Authors:

Robert R. Alexander

Year:

1984

Type:

Research Paper

Station:

Rocky Mountain Research Station

Source:

Res. Pap. RM-RP-254. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Forest and Range Experiment Station. 17 p.

Download (PDF 4.90 MB)

Download (PDF 4.90 MB): https://research.fs.usda.gov/download/treesearch/65304.pdf

Abstract

Successful natural regeneration of Engelmann spruce in small clearcut openings depends on weather and aspect and is modified by cultural treatments. Small clearcut openings (1-2 ha) can be successfully regenerated on north aspects with mineral soil seedbeds and shade. On south aspects, shade is absolutely essential for any survival. However, successful natural regeneration is not likely regardless of cultural treatments. Drought is the most serious cause of mortality; but clipping by birds, frost heaving (north aspect), heat girdle (south aspect), and snowmold (north aspect) caused significant losses.

Keywords

Picea engelmannii, Engelmann spruce, natural regeneration, environmental factors

Citation

Alexander, Robert R. 1984. Natural regeneration of Engelmann spruce after clearcutting in the central Rocky Mountains in relation to environmental factors. Res. Pap. RM-RP-254. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Forest and Range Experiment Station. 17 p.