Intraseasonal growth and nutrient composition of jack pine needles following fertilization

Abstract

Seasonal responses in dry weight, nutrient concentration, and nutrient content of current and year-old needles of plantation jack pine (Pinusbanksiana Lamb.) were examined after treatment with factorial combinations of N, P, and K applied at 0 and 100 kg/ha, respectively. Nitrogen fertilization not only increased dry matter production and N composition of new needles, but also increased uptake of P, K, Ca, and Mg by prolonging the active growing season. Net translocation of N from old to new foliage occurred only in N-deficient trees at the peak of the growing season. Application of P and (or) K failed to increase growth and nutrient uptake of needles, except for P additions which induced luxury consumption of phosphorous. Diagnosis of foliar nutrient status indicated P and K as sufficient and N as deficient for growth in this stand.