The effect of sowing depth and mulch on germination
The effect of three sowing depths (surface, 1/4 inch, and 1/2 inch) and four mulches (sand, hydromulch, fresh alder sawdust, composted alder sawdust) on germination and 1+0 growth of Douglas-fir 252-1.0 seedlings was evaluated at International Paper Company's Western Forest Research Center near Lebanon, Oregon. Germination percent, 1+0 seedling bed density, and 1+0 diameter were best for seed sown at 1/4 inch soil depth. 1+0 seedling shoot height and oven-dry shoot weight were best for seed sown on the surface or at 1/4 inch depth. The poorest performance resulted from seed sown at 1/2 inch soil depth. Germination rate was not affected by sowing depth. Mulching with alder sawdust modified soil temperatures in the seed zone which significantly increased seed germination and 1+0 shoot development relative to other mulches tested. Seed covered with hydromulch experienced colder soil temperatures producing the poorest germination rate and percent.
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| Publication | Forest Nursery Proceedings |
|---|---|
| Event | Coeur d'Alene, ID - 1984 |
| Author | R. D. Guariglia and B. E. Thompson |
| Published | 1985/06/01 |
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