Getting to the Roots: Production Effects on Tree Root Growth and Morphology

摘要

Recent nursery production research conducted in the Northeast has far-reaching implications for the way trees and shrubs are grown, including plant health and quality, environmental impact and return on investment. In Part I of our presentation, we compare three types of production systems and their effects on tree growth and root morphology.Demand for locally grown trees in the Northeast has increased over the past several years, as nursery production in this region has decreased and supplies have dwindled across the country. The Northeast imports much of its nursery stock from the mid-Atlantic and Midwestern states, but with rising freight costs and increased interest in buying local products, it may be time to re-examine the potential for more local nursery stock production. At the same time, environmental concerns have been raised concerning the removal of prime native soil inherent in some production practices.