ISSN:
1572-9680
Keywords:
borescope
;
competition
;
herbicide
;
minirhizotron
;
pasture
;
Prunus avium
;
silvopastoral
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
Notes:
Abstract The use of a simple counting method using a borescope and minirhizotron system to study the interaction of roots of wild cherry trees (Prunus avium L) and pasture in an upland silvopastoral system is described. Operator variation was greatest when distinguishing different tree root categories (e.g. white, brown, woody) but was not significant in relation to total tree or grass root counts or species differences. Analysis of covariance was used to take these differences into account in a field trial using several operators. The seasonal patterns of tree and pasture root growth were different. Tree roots peaked in May before maximal shoot growth. The peak in pasture roots occurred two weeks earlier. Tree height growth was increased by the use of herbicides to control grass growth but this effect was only apparent during August when the soil was dry and when pasture root counts were reduced.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00707007
Permalink
