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The effect of fertilization on litter decomposition in clearfelled spruce stands

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Summary

The influence of NPK-fertilizer on decomposition of litter layers and deposited logging residues (brash) on a clearfelled Sitka spruce stand was followed during two years by zero-tension lysimetry and litterbags. Root development of second rotation planted trees on this peaty gley soil are restricted to the litter layers (LFH) and without fertilizer are dependent on its decomposition for release of nutrients. A comparison of fertilized and control plots showed few site differences and similar hydrological properties.

Fertilizer addition (urea-N, rock-P and KCl) immediately raised leachate concentrations of NH4−N, K and PO4−P, the last remaining high over the period. NO3−N increased dramatically in the second year leachates from the fertilized area. Within two years 45, 60 and 75% of added NPK respectively were recovered in leachates.

Two-year-old litter in litterbags lost weight significantly more slowly after fertilization. The calculated\(\bar k\) values were 0.28 (control plot) and 0.15 (fertilized plot). Mean\(\bar k\) values were derived from individual regressions and allowed microsite variation to be assessed. The difference in\(\bar k\) is attributed to available C limitation although N concentration of needles increased on both plots, P concentration increased slowly on the control plot while K and Mg decreased on both. Ca concentrations doubled with fertilization and remained constant over two years.

The rapid loss of fertilizer and slight response from planted trees indicate delayed application of fertilizers may be desirable.

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  1. B. D. Titus

    Present address: Newfoundland Forestry Centre, P.O. Box 6028, A1C 5X8, St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Edinburgh, Mayfield Road, EH9 3JU, Edinburgh, UK

    B. D. Titus & D. C. Malcolm

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Titus, B.D., Malcolm, D.C. The effect of fertilization on litter decomposition in clearfelled spruce stands. Plant Soil 100, 297–322 (1987). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02370947

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