Cavity Size and Copper Root Pruning Affect Production and Establishment of Container-Grown Longleaf Pine Seedlings

Abstract

Abstract With six container types, we tested the effects of cavity size (i.e., 60, 93, and 170 ml) and copper root pruning on the root system development of longleaf pine (Pinus palustris Mill.) seedlings grown in a greenhouse. We then evaluated root egress during a root growth potential test and assessed seedling morphology and root system development 1 year after planting in central Louisiana, USA. Seedling size was increased by copper root pruning in small cavities but was unaffected by this treatment in larger cavities. Before planting, copper root pruning increased taproot and secondary lateral root dry weights at the expense of primary lateral root dry weight and increased root growth potential in the top 5 cm of the root plug. Across treatments, survival was 97%, and all seedlings were in the grass stage. Of the lateral root dry weight that elongated during the first year after planting, 33% more occurred in the upper 5 cm of soil when seedlings were treated with copper. Within each cavity size, copper root pruning did not affect the general morphology of 1-year-old seedlings. However, relationships between root collar diameter and root egress by depth indicated that this treatment has the potential to increase the range of cavity sizes used for seedling production.