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Home → Publications → Tree Improvement and Genetics → Southern Forest Tree Improvement Conference → 20th Southern Forest Tree Improvement Conference (1989) → First-Order Lateral Root Development: Something to Consider in Mother Tree and Progeny Assessment

First-Order Lateral Root Development: Something to Consider in Mother Tree and Progeny Assessment

Recent work on frequency distribution and heritability of first-order lateral roots (FOLR) of loblolly pine and sweetgum seedlings suggests the desirability of using specific root characteristics of seedlings as a supplement to assessment of stem dimensions. For 3 years we have tested progeny from approximately 75 mother trees in Georgia Forestry Commission seed orchards. Frequency distribution of progeny by FOLR number appears to be highly heritable. Seedling height and root-collar diameter are readily altered by certain cultural practices such as fertilization, top clipping, and root pruning. But, within a standard seedbed density range, numbers of FOLR were affected little by changing cultural practices. At lifting, seedlings could be found with good stem characteristics and poor FOLR development. However, regardless of nursery conditions, few seedlings with excellent FOLR development had poor aboveground development. Keywords: Root morphology, tree improvement.


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Author(s): Paul P. Kormanik, John L. Ruehle

Publication: Tree Improvement and Genetics - Southern Forest Tree Improvement Conference - 1989

Section: Concurrent Session 3A