Abstract
The effect of wood ash applied as a fertiliser (0.25, 0.5 and 1 kg m−2) to nutrient poor sandy soil on 4-year-old Norway spruce (Picea abies) growing in small-scale sample plots was studied. Analyses carried out with roots, stems, needles and shoots of different age showed that an increase in the pH level and K and Ca concentrations and a decrease in N and P concentrations in the soil was accompanied by a disbalance of nutrients in tree compartments. Stimulation of pigment synthesis in Norway spruce needles was observed, and no disbalances occurred in the pigment system (Chl a/Chl b, TChl/Car) guaranteeing normal process of photosynthesis. Biomass responses to wood ash application depended on the age of needles and shoots, being only slightly notable in current year organs. Inhibition of height growth of seedlings, but stimulation of root biomass was established.
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Mandre, M., Korsjukov, R. & Ots, K. Effect of wood ash application on the biomass distribution and physiological state of Norway spruce seedlings on sandy soils. Plant Soil 265, 301–314 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11104-005-0509-3
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11104-005-0509-3