Root Distribution of a Plantation‐Grown Red Pine in an Outwash Soil

Abstract

Root distribution and mass of a single dominant sample tree (17 m high, 20 cm diameter) in a 39—year—old Pinus resinosa Ait. plantation supported by a deep, stratified, outwash sandy soil were related to soil horizonation characteristics and aboveground tree components (foilage, branches, bolebark, and bolewood). All roots were excavated by hand in the A_p and B horizons and by 0.3—m depths in the C strata, were separated into five size classes, cleaned, dried, and weighed. Root—depth penetration terminated in a great number of fine roots in a thick, very fine sandy—silty stratum below the coarser textured solum at 2.7 m. Lateral root distribution was extremely variable; the maximum radial extent was approximately 9 m from the stump. Total root weight was approximately twice the total needle weight.