Machine Site Preparation Improves Seedling Performance on a High-Elevation Site in Southwest Oregon
Authors: McNabb, David H.1; Baker-Katz, Kathryn1; Tesch, Steven D.1
Source: Western Journal of Applied Forestry, Volume 8, Number 3, 1 July 1993 , pp. 95-98(4)
Publisher: Society of American Foresters
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Abstract:
Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) seedlings planted on areas receiving one of four site-preparation treatments (scarify, scarify/till, soil removal and soil removal/till) and on unprepared control areas were compared for 5 yr at a high-elevation, nutrient-poor site in the western Siskiyou Mountains of southwest Oregon. Fifth-year survival of seedlings was at least 85% among machine-prepared plots, compared to 42% on control plots. Cover of competing vegetation remained less than 25% during the period for all machine treatments. In contrast, vegetation cover on control plots was 30% at the time of planting and increased to nearly 75% after 5 yr. Competing vegetation clearly impeded seedling performance. The effects of unusually droughty conditions at the time of planting in 1982 were examined further by interplanting additional seedlings in the soil-removal treatment in 1985. The interplanting was followed by more normal spring precipitation, and seedlings grew better over 5 yr than those planted in 1982. The slow recovery of competing vegetation and generally poor seedling growth on all treatments during both planting years are attributed to low soil fertility. West. J. Appl. For. 8(3):95-98.Document Type: Journal article
Affiliations: 1: Department of Forest Science, College of Forestry, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331
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