Forest Science · 1974 · 32 citations · 0 references
Abstract The effect of soil temperature on shoot and root development was investigated for three conifers and two broadleaved species. Plants were raised from seed through two 8-week stages in environmental chambers with soil temperatures controlled in constant-temperature water baths. Soil temperatures were 15, 19, 23, 27, and 31°C and soil moisture between 0.1 and 1.5 bars soil water suction. Other environmental factors were held constant at simulated natural levels. White spruce and tree-of-heaven had optimal shoot and root growth at 19°C. Jack pine growth was maximum at 27°C. Douglas-fir seedlings developed well between 15 and 27°C. Paper birch grew well between 19 and 31°C with best shoot development at 31°C, whereas root development was favored at 23°C. Forest Sci. 20:363-367.