Mulching effects of plant fiber and plant fiber-polyester mats combined with fertilizer on loblslly pine seedlings

Abstract

In this preliminary study, several mattings, combined with and without fertilizer application, were tested around newly planted loblolly, pine (Pinus taeda L.) seedlings. After 9 months in the field, jute- polyester and jute mats had similar survival rates relitive to controls, but hemlock-po1yvester mats had depressed survival when used in combination with fertilizer. All types of mats had similar durability--85 to 90% of them remained intact and stayed in place throughout the study. Fertilization generally increased seedling development but did not affect mat durability. Mats in comhination with fertilizer did not affect seedling development. The mats provided l0O% weed control.

Citation

Haywood, James D.; Youngquist, John A. 1991. Mulching effects of plant fiber and plant fiber-polyester mats combined with fertilizer on loblslly pine seedlings. Tree Planters'' Notes 42(3):32-15; 1991.