Abstract
The selection of most suitable propagation material, as well as the adjustment of existing seedling management practices, are gaining increasing importance to ensure the best outcomes under the long-term setting of climate change. One of the factors to consider is a predicted increase in the frequency and duration of high-temperature periods. Since heat often coincides with drought, these factors are typically assessed together, yet heat stress on its own has received less attention. In this study, we examined the effect of supra-optimal ambient temperature on nine Salix alba clone cuttings wilting under greenhouse conditions and sufficient moisture levels. Most plants are especially vulnerable to extreme conditions in early stages of development. Response to heat varied between clones but, overall, shoots that were taller than 350 mm were more sensitive to heat stress. The pruning of excess lateral shoots did not show significant improvement in heat tolerance. In total, 96% of the wilted cuttings proceeded to produce lateral shoots after the cessation of heat stress. It should be studied further if similar patterns are evident in field conditions and if earlier outplanting has a positive effect on cutting vitality.
Highlights
Of the wilted cuttings proceeded to produce lateral shoots after the cessation of heat stress. It should be studied further if similar patterns are evident in field conditions and if earlier outplanting has a positive effect on cutting vitality
Trees propagated by cuttings, such as Salix alba, intended for agroforestry systems, can be expected to act differently to seedlings, and have more resilience potential, as well as greater potential to recover from heat stress
A similar pattern is expected to be true for heat stress as well [24]
Summary
Due to climate change, the overall occurrence and frequency of extreme temperature events will increase [1]. Climate change-driven constrains that are expected to arise in the future are especially important to consider when selecting stock for the propagation of perennial plants. In addition to selecting planting material that is site appropriate, long-lived plants must be resilient and withstand both current and future environmental conditions. Trees propagated by cuttings, such as Salix alba, intended for agroforestry systems, can be expected to act differently to seedlings, and have more resilience potential, as well as greater potential to recover from heat stress. Recognition of the traits that suggest better tolerance to environmental stressors and are easy to identify can support better planting material selection and, better tree plantation establishment results. We evaluate the wilting of nine different Salix alba clones under extreme heat conditions
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
