Factorsinfluencing the amount and distribution of leaf area of pine stands
Document Type
Article
Journal/Book Title/Conference
Ecol. Bull.
Volume
43
Publication Date
1-1-1994
First Page
102
Last Page
114
Abstract
Leaf area index (LAI) of forest ecosystems determines rates of energy and material exchange between plant canopies and the atmosphere. Considerable variation exists in the value and timing of maximum LAI in pine stands. Maximum LAI (total) varied from 5 to 30 across a range of species and environments and this was reached 8 to 50 yrs after stand establishment. The variation in maximum LAI was related to multiple factors including site quality (climate and soils) and shade tolerance. Timing differences appear to be related to growth rates and stocking/stand density relationships. Rapid growth rates, well stocked stands, and warm climates result in the earliest canopy closure. Nitrogen most commonly limits LAI, although water can limit LAI in arid environments. Other nutrients may also limit LAI but have been less extensively studied. Seasonal dynamics vary considerably among pines and this is due to species dependent differences in foliar longevity. Species with relatively few foliage age classes are the most dynamic seasonally and are most responsive to environmental fluctuations. Among several pine species, vertical LAI distribution in closed canopies follows a normal distribution.
Recommended Citation
Vose, J.M., P.M. Dougherty, J.N. Long, F.W. Smith, H.L. Gholz and P.J. Curran. 1994. Factors influencing the amount and distribution of leaf area of pine stands. In: Gholz, H.L., Linder, S. and McMurtrie, R.E. (eds.) Environmental constraints on the structure and productivity of pine forest ecosystems: a comparative analysis. - Ecol. Bull. (Copenhagen) 43:102-114.
