Foliar Nutrient Concentration Differences Between Provenances of Douglas Fir and Their Significance to Foliar Analysis Interpretation

Abstract

Foliar nutrient concentration differences between provenances, and the relationship between foliar nutrient levels and provenance growth was examined in Douglas fir (Pseudotsugamenziesii (Mirb.) Franco) from the coastal region of British Columbia.In the first experiment differences in foliar nutrient concentrations among four provenances of 3-year old plants, ranged from 8 to 18%. The relationships between these provenances differed according to whether needle, or whole plant nutrient concentrations were considered.In the second experiment 2-year old plants of three provenances, grown under four fertilizer regimes, at each of three nurseries, showed that differences in growth and foliar nutrient concentrations between provenances were affected by nursery. The degree of correlation between shoot length and foliage nutrient concentration varied according to provenance. Coefficients for the regression of shoot length on foliar N and K differed between provenances even when provenance foliar N and K levels were similar. It was suggested that the relationship between foliar nutrient concentrations and shoot length may differ between provenances.