An empirical method that separates irreversible stem radial growth from bark water content changes in trees: theory and case studies.

ABSTRACT: Substantial uncertainty surrounds our knowledge of tree stem growth, with some of the most basic questions, such as when stem radial growth occurs through the daily cycle, still unanswered. We employed high-resolution point dendrometers, sap flow sensors, and developed theory and statistical approaches, to devise a novel method separating irreversible radial growth from elastic tension-driven and elastic osmotically driven changes in bark water content. We tested this method using data from five case study species. Experimental manipulations, namely a field irrigation experiment on Scots pine and a stem girdling experiment on red forest gum trees, were used to validate the theory. Time courses of stem radial growth following irrigation and stem girdling were consistent with a-priori predic

SUBMITTER: Mencuccini M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6849533 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature