Abstract
Research Highlights: Regenerating northern white-cedar (Thuja occidentalis L.) is challenging throughout much of its range. This study attempts to relate differences in natural regeneration to stand- and seedbed-level factors. Background and Objectives: Lack of regeneration of northern white-cedar is often attributed to overbrowsing by white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus Zimmerman) because white-cedar is a preferred winter browse species. However, there are many other factors that may contribute to regeneration failure for white-cedar including its specific seedbed requirements and competition from other, often faster-growing trees and shrubs. Materials and Methods: We surveyed five mature white-cedar stands in Wisconsin, USA that have had little to no management in the past 50+ years to find stem densities of natural white-cedar regeneration in three height classes. We also collected data at each stand on potential predictor variables including overstory attributes, competitive environment, seedbed, and browsing by deer. We used model selection to create separate models to predict stem density of each white-cedar regeneration height class. Results: None of the measures of deer browsing used in this study were found to be associated with white-cedar regeneration. Soil pH, competition from other seedlings and saplings, and stem density of white-cedar in the overstory were found to be potentially associated with white-cedar regeneration. Conclusions: While browsing by deer is likely a factor affecting white-cedar regeneration in many areas, this study highlights the challenge of quantifying deer browse effects, as well as showing that other factors likely contribute to the difficulty of regenerating white-cedar.
Highlights
Northern white-cedar (Thuja occidentalis L.) is widely recognized for ecological, cultural, and commodity-production values
We found that at each plot in the study the percent of palatable stems browsed was at least 25%–50% and as high as 75%–100%, but observed browse was not correlated with white-cedar regeneration in any height class (Figure 3)
Our study focused on mature stands of white-cedar uncover factors relatedfactors to success or failure of natural white-cedar inventories of mature stands oftowhite-cedar to uncover related to success or failure of natural regeneration
Summary
Northern white-cedar (Thuja occidentalis L.) is widely recognized for ecological, cultural, and commodity-production values. This species contributes to biodiversity through its association with rare plants such as the showy lady slipper (Cypripedium reginae Walter) [1], is a preferred winter browse for white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus Zimmerman), and has traditionally been used by Native. American peoples for ceremonies, tools, and medicinal healing In addition to these non-commodity values, white-cedar’s unique wood properties make it highly resistant to decay after harvesting and desirable for production of house siding, log homes, fence posts, and specialty products such as outdoor furniture [2]. In the Great Lakes region, where this study is focused, most white-cedar harvested for timber products grows in alkaline wetlands as nearly-pure stands [2,3]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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.
