Microsite Variability and Safe Site Description for Western Larch Germination and Establishment

Abstract

OSWALD, B. P. (Department of Plant and Soil Science, Alabama AM shading, moss, and large vegetation were not significantly effected by treatment. Seven western larch (Larix occidentalis) seeds were distributed after burning treatment on each sample point, and the number of germinations, germinants and seedlings were tracked over two growing seasons. Germinations (741) and germinants (656) from 17,500 seeds occurred on a wide variety of burned and unburned microsite types. Microsite types with successful germination, germinants, and seedling establishment are the (seedbed with proper conditions) for these stages of seedling development. Safe site requirements became more specific as the seedling developed, with only 47 seedlings surviving to the end of the first growing season. Seedlings survived on safe sites which represented 1.5% of the -total area. The eight physical characteristics used to describe microsite types were evaluated with discriminant analysis for significance at each seedling stage. Significant variables and interactions were identified for regression. Analysis produced high (R2 = 0.75) predictability at the end of the first growing season for initial seedling establishment. Safe sites are described for seedling establishment, with site, seedbed treatment, shading and moss as significant variables. The safe site concept appears useful in evaluating germination and initial establishment of western larch.