Effects of scarification and mulch on establishment and growth of six different clones of Picea abies

Abstract

The effects of mulch and scarification on the establishment and growth of six clones of Norway spruce [Picea abies (L.) Karst.] were examined in a study in southern Sweden. Mulch and scarification reduced the amount of competing vegetation and tended to improve soil moisture and soil temperature. Budbreak occurred earlier for cuttings planted in the scarification treatment in comparison with the control and mulching treatment. Scarification increased survival and the combination of scarification and mulch resulted in the best growth. Gas exchange and the number of new roots were higher in planting spots covered with mulch. Clonal differences regarding gas exchange and growth were significant. Clones with a poor height growth also had a low gas exchange and a small number of new roots. In contrast, the clone with the best height growth had high gas exchange and a large number of new roots. Clonal effects on growth were greater than site preparation effects.

Keywords:

• Norway spruce
• photosynthesis
• regeneration
• root growth
• rooted cuttings
• stomatal conductance

This study was supported by the Norway Spruce Research Programme and the Gunnar and Lilian Nicholson Graduate Fellowship. We thank the staff at Tönnersjöheden experimental forest, NC State Forest Nutrition Coop and Torkel Welander for technical assistance and support.