Effect of some common weed species on Pinus radiata growth at a dry South Island site

Abstract

Reductions in radiata pine (Pinus radiata D.Don) growth caused by a range of common weed species were measured al a site where water availability was known to limit tree growth. Radiata pine seedlings were grown for 3 years on their own or with volunteer herbaceous broadleaves, broom, gorse or browntop. Water and nutrient levels were varied by factorial +/- irrigation and fertiliser treatments. Radiata pine stem volume was reduced in the presence of all four weed types. Herbaceous broadleaf weeds had the greatest effect on tree growth, gorse had the smallest effect, and broom and grass were intermediate. Water supply was thought to have a major effect in determining the influence of weeds on tree growth.