Dynamics of frost resistance in various provenances of Abies grandis lindl

Abstract

The frost resistance of one year old needles and shoots of Abies grandis (seven provenances) and Abies alba (one provenance) was determined using Dexter's method since early autumn till late spring (September-May). Material was collected from trees over ten year old, planted in Beskid Sa̧decki Range near Krynica, 800 m above sea level. In this study it was found, that in early autumn (September) A. grandis develops weaker frost hardiness than Abies alba. In the late autumn and in winter, provenances coming from region II (according to Müller), and especially provenance 12016, are equal in respect to frost hardiness of shoots and needles to Abies alba. Among the provenances from Müller's region I exceptional frost hardiness is displayed by provenance 12005, which is also characterized by fast growth. In spring, Abies alba flushes earlier than A. grandis, which makes it more susceptible to late frosts.