Effect of storage conditions on post planting water status and performance of Pinus radiata D. Don stock-types

Abstract

We examined the post-planting effect of storage on the plant quality and initial survival potential of bare-root (BR) and soil-plugged root (PR) of radiata pine seedlings outplanted in wet and dry soils. Seedlings were subjected to planting shock even under well-watered conditions. Although the transpiration rate declined, indicating closure of stomata, water stress occurred as evidenced by the decline in relative water content (RWC) and in the leaf water potential. More than 80% of the PR seedlings and only 20% of BR seedlings transplanted in well-watered regimen survived. Regardless of storage conditions and duration, seedlings planted under water shortage with a RWC < 50% did not survive. According to these results, it is not advisable to store radiata pine seedlings for more than 1 week when planting is under drought conditions even if the seedlings have soil around roots (PR seedlings).