Changes in osmotic potential, cell elasticity, and turgor relationships of 2nd-year black spruce container seedlings

Abstract

Components of tissue water potential and shoot apical activity of black spruce (Piceamariana (Mill.) B.S.P.) container seedlings were evaluated during the 2nd-year cycle of shoot elongation. Water potential components estimated using the pressure–volume technique included osmotic potentials at full turgor (ψπ100) and the turgor loss point (ψπTLP) and their difference (Δψπ), relative water content at the turgor loss point (RWCTLP), total turgor pressure (ψPTOTAL), maximum bulk modulus of elasticity (Σmax), and elasticity near full turgor (ΣFT). All parameters changed in concert with the morphology of shoot elongation; ψπ100, ψπTLP, RWCTLP, and Σ were at minimum values prior to bud swelling, increasing to a maximum during rapid shoot elongation and decreasing slowly following bud initiation and needle primordia development. Δψπ and ψPTOTAL in contrast were at minimums during shoot elongation. The relationship between Σ and ψP varied with shoot phenology. Total turgor pressure over the range of naturally occurring relative water contents is proposed as an indicator of the survival and growth potential of out planted tree seedlings.