Survival and growth of Douglas-Fir relating to weeding, fertilization, and seed source

Abstract

The goal of this study was to quantitatively evaluate the individual and interactive effects of weed control, nitrogen fertilization, and seed source on Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) survival and growth in a range of sites and growing conditions in western Oregon. Weed control was the dominant factor influencing seedling survival and growth and accounted for 49% of the explained variation in seedling volume after 2 yr. Nitrogen fertilization had no effect when used in conjunction with weed control and a negative effect when used without weed control. Seedlings from a seed orchard source were significantly larger in diameter and volume than those from a wild local source after two growing seasons, but second-year heights were similar for the two seedling types. Initial seedling size was positively correlated with growth rate.