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A comparison of canopy structure measures for predicting height growth of underplanted seedlings

Informally Refereed

Abstract

The study compares the relationship between 15 measures of canopy structure and height growth of underplanted yellow-poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera L.) seedlings. Investigators used 4 midstory removal intensities to create a structural gradient across fifty 0.05-ha experimental plots; removals resulted in a range of canopy cover between 51 to 96 percent. Twelve 1-year-old containerized yellow-poplar seedlings were planted within each plot. Height growth was monitored through two growing seasons (2004 to 2005). Investigators used regression analysis (n = 50) to predict 2-year height growth using measures of tree size and density, canopy openness, and vertical structure. Model of best-fit included height to the forest canopy and canopy cover estimated using crown width models (R² = 0.78). Results emphasize the potential importance of quantifying horizontal and vertical canopy characteristics when evaluating the relationship between forest structure and growth of underplanted seedlings.

Parent Publication

Citation

Lhotka, John M.; Loewenstein, Edward F. 2013. A comparison of canopy structure measures for predicting height growth of underplanted seedlings. In: Guldin, James M., ed. 2013. Proceedings of the 15th biennial southern silvicultural research conference. e-Gen. Tech. Rep. SRS-GTR-175. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station. 289-293.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/43599