Biomass production and allocation, including fine-root turnover, and annual N uptake in lysimeter-grown basket willows

Abstract

Annual net primary production (NPP) and N uptake were estimated for lysimeter-grown basket willows ( Salix viminalis L.) during 3 years after planting. The willows were grown in a stand structure and continuously supplied with water and liquid fertilizer through drip tubes. The lysimeters contained either clay from the site or washed quartz sand. Shoot growth and leaf litter were measured and fine-root dynamics observed in minirhizotrons. Destructive samples were taken annually in late autumn and entire root systems were washed out. Dry mass and N content of all plant parts were determined. Fine-root production was estimated by two methods, based on destructive samplings and observations in minirhizotrons. The proportion of biomass allocated below ground increased considerably when estimates based on accumulated NPP were compared with those based on standing dry mass. In the first year, 49 and 58% of annual NPP in willows grown in clay and sand, respectively, was belowground. In subsequent years the proportions were 36–38% and 33–40%. Most belowground production was fine roots. Relatively more N was used belowground in the first year than subsequently, but no substrate-induced differences were observed in the allocation pattern. Both annual NPP and N uptake was always higher in plants in clay than in those in sand: in the final 2 years, 21–22 tonnes DM ha −1 year −1 and 190 kg N ha −1 year −1 in clay, and 9–10 tonnes DM ha −1 year −1 and 100 kg N ha −1 year −1 in sand.