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Structure and physiology of Sitka spruce roots

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  05 December 2011

M. P. Coutts  and
J. J. Philipson
M. P. Coutts
Affiliation:
Forestry Commission, Northern Research Station, Roslin, Midlothian EH25 9SY, Scotland, U.K.
J. J. Philipson
Affiliation:
Forestry Commission, Northern Research Station, Roslin, Midlothian EH25 9SY, Scotland, U.K.
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Synopsis

The growth and development of Sitka spruce roots is reviewed against the practical background of tree stability. Two features of the roots which make Sitka spruce liable to windthrow on upland sites are the shallow development in unfavourable soil conditions, and restricted lateral spread and anchorage caused by some forms of cultivation. Responses to different aspects of the soil environment are discussed, with emphasis on mineral nutrition, drying of the soil, waterlogging and temperature. The development of a small number of major woody roots from an assortment of primary laterals on the transplant occurs at an early age and is determined both by the relative size and vigour of the primary roots and by their local environment. The roots, which respond to increases in nitrogen and phosphorus supply with enhanced growth, are sensitive to drying of the soil and are particularly so to waterlogging, but they show no unusual response to soil temperature. Adventitious roots can play a role in the survival and development of the root system.

Type
Research Article
Information
Proceedings of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, Section B: Biological Sciences , Volume 93 , Issue 1-2: Sitka Spruce , 1987 , pp. 131 - 144
Copyright
Copyright © Royal Society of Edinburgh 1987

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