Abstract
Young black pine trees (Pinus nigra austriaca) on shell limestone and older spruce trees (Picea abies) on variegated sandstone were investigated with regard to the distribution patterns of needle characteristics (needle mass, concentrations of N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Mn, Fe, Zn, Cu, Al and B) in the crown with the aid of the multiple linear regression analysis. The needles are the longer, the shorter their distance to the terminal shoot is during their development. In spite of considerable differences in age, site and time of sampling the P and Cu levels in the needles of both tree species uniformly decrease depending upon age, while the Ca, Fe and B levels increase. In the case of these elements the whorl position does not exert any significant linear influence, with the except of B level, which decreases down the crown. In the case of the other elements the correlations between needle age and whorl position of both tree species are different. In connection with the new-type forest damages it is interesting that the concentration of Mg in the needles of healthy spruce trees decreases with advancing needle age and down-crown. In spruce trees the Zn level in needles diminishes with advancing needle age, while the whorl position does not exert any influence. Based upon an analysis of the distribution patterns it is regarded possible to detect abnormal changes of the assimilation apparatus at an early stage.
Published Version
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 call