Variation in the major element content of red spruce foliage with season, crown position, tree and tissue age

Abstract

Abstract Three different age classes of red spruce were sampled and analysed to determine the variability in the major element content with seasonal and sampling part changes. Results show a definite seasonal pattern for each element. Variations in nutrient content occur with changes in the sample crown position, tree and tissue age. Regeneration stands have statistically higher nitrogen contents, while the more mature stands are significantly higher in the other elements. Upper crown samples have higher contents of nitrogen, phosphorus and magnesium while the lower crowns have higher ash, calcium and potassium contents. Nutrient levels are low and the mean values for regeneration, immature and mature stands range between 0.95–1.19 per cent nitrogen; 0.089–0.143 per cent phosphorus; 0.46–0.59 per cent potassium; 0.18–0.31 per cent calcium; 0.056–0.100 per cent magnesium and 2.12–2.76 per cent ash.