Growth response of container-grown red pine and black pine seedlings at different types of fertilization

Abstract

We examined the growth, carbon and nitrogen response of container-grown 2-0 red pine (Pinus densiflora) and black pine (P. thunbergii) seedlings at different types of fertilization. Red pine and black pine seedlings were treated with 0.3% or varying rates of water-soluble foliar fertilizer and a slow-release solid compound fertilizer. Root collar diameter and height of both pine seedlings were not significantly different among fertilizer types, while significantly higher in the fertilization than in the control treatments (P < 0.05). The greatest dry mass of the seedling was observed in the varying rates of foliar fertilization. Carbon concentration among the seedling components was generally higher in foliage or stem than in roots, but that of seedling components was not affected by fertilization types. Nitrogen concentration of seedling components was not significantly different among fertilization types, but significantly greater (P < 0.05) in the fertilization than in the control treatments. These results indicate that morphological characteristics and carbon and nitrogen status of container-grown red pine and black pine seedlings responded similarly between slow-release solid compound fertilizer and water-soluble fertilizer.