ISSN:
1573-5095
Keywords:
planting site
;
planting stock quality
;
reforestation
;
seedling physiology
;
seedling quality
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
Notes:
Abstract Root Growth Potential (RGP) has become the most commonly used and reported measure of seedling quality. It has also been used to predict field performance after planting, but not everyone agrees that this is an appropriate use. The authors were solicited by the “Making the Grade” Organizing Committee to engage in a debate on the topic “Does Root Growth Potential (RGP) predict Field Performance” with D. G. Simpson arguing the affirmative position and G. A. Ritchie the negative. Simpson's key debate points are: (1) RGP predicts actual field performance when trees are dead __ dead trees do not grow, (2) RGP predicts field performance potential when water uptake is dependent on new root growth, and (3) RGP is a practical tool to monitor and improve reforestation system performance. Ritchie, arguing against the proposition, maintains that: (1) the logic which underlies the dependence of Field Performance on rapid root growth after planting is flawed, i.e. root growth immediately following planting rarely occurs because soils during the planting season are generally below the threshold temperature for root growth, and (2) RGP does not provide enough information about the complex of interacting factors which control Field Performance to give reliable, consistent predictions. The authors conclude by proposing a conceptual model which accommodates both positions.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1023/A:1006542526433
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