A study of root distribution and the effect of Heterobasidion spp. root infection on the growth of live Scots pines (Pinus sylvestris) in Southern Sweden
Abstract: Stump treatment against Heterobasidion spp. root infection has not been commonly conducted on Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) plantations in Sweden. To assess whether it should be, growth and volume losses caused by H. spp. was studied in a 36-year old Scots pine stand in southern Sweden. A total of 24 Scots pine trees were extracted and checked for H. spp. root infection, followed by a stem analysis reconstructing the volume growth. Root morphology and location of infection were studied and different above-ground indicators were tested to assess the incidence of infection. H. spp. were detected on 87.5% of the studied trees and colonized 9.7% of root volume in average (0.0-32.3%), which resulted in a growth reduction of 1.93 m3 per hectare in the latest five years. Roots and infections were located unevenly in cardinal directions. Large primary roots were most susceptible to infections. Needle retention, crown length, DBH and presence of Heterobasidion fruiting bodies were not accurate enough as an infection indicator. In conclusion, the root morphology and data of infection may be used to calibrate some root disease models and it is recommended that stump treatment on Scots pine is conducted to maintain the site productivity in southern Sweden.
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