Soil-moisture and soil-temperature studies under radiata pine, Whakarewarewa Forest, 1954–55

Summary

Soil-temperature and soil-moisture changes during the year October 1954—Octobcr 1955 have been studied in two experimental plots in Whakarewarewa Forest. One plot was in a 39-year-old stand of radiata pine and the other in a seven-year-old stand of the same species. Changes down to a depth of 9 ft 9 in. have been measured and correlated with the Llinfall and mean daily temperatures.

Differences between plots were found and their relationships to variations in the cmopy, to thickness of litter, and to air movement in the stand are discussed.

Both gypsmn and fibreglass soil-moisture units were used, but the latter proved more satisfactory because of a more rapid response to a lowering of the soil-moisture content.