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Hardwood Seedling Morphology and Physiology
Morphology
- Roots—Seedlings with more large
lateral roots tend to perform better in the field than those with
few large lateral roots. A fibrous root system (many very fine roots)
enhances the roots’ surface area, increasing water and nutrient
uptake. To stimulate a fibrous root system and the production of
lateral roots in the upper rooting zone, many nurseries undercut
seedlings about 10 inches below ground line during active growth
(root wrenching). This procedure simulates natural damage. Typically,
seedlings produce more new roots than are lost when they are undercut.
- Root Collar—Seedlings with a larger
root collar diameter will store more carbohydrates. These carbohydrates
provide energy immediately after planting when seedlings are reestablishing
the root-soil contact they need to extract resources from the soil.
- Shoot Length—Taller seedlings are
better able to outcompete weeds than shorter seedlings. This is especially
important on sites with a lot of weeds.
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