Provenance Variation in Early Growth and Development of 'Picea Mariana' (Mill) B.S.P.

摘要

Provenance variation in Picea mariana (Mill) B.S.P. (Black spruce) seedlings was studied to provide recommendations for introducing the species into Scandinavia. Provenances were analyzed in a series of tests covering root and shoot development, and mineral nutrient (N. P. and K) content. The studies were carried out as greenhouse tests, as nursery trials, as cold tolerance tests in growth chambers and by destructive sampling. The performance of Black spruce was compared with that of the Norway spruce. Norway spruce exhibited a developmental phenology and biomass properties similar to Black spruce originating at latitudes between 50 and 60 degrees N. However, Norway spruce had thicker roots and stems and was more susceptible to spring frosts following bud flushing.