The Effects of Dormant Branch Thinning on Total Leaf, Shoot, and Root Production from Bare-Root Prunus Cerasifera 'Newportii'

Abstract

Dormant branch thinning at planting time did not affect total leaf or new root production, or leaf:new root ratios of two-year-old, branched, bare-root Prunus cerasifera 'Newportii.' Variability in new root production was more than twice that in leaf production; leaf:new root ratio was determined primarily by the magnitude of new root weight. Thinning resulted in increases in the number and lengths of new shoots. Data were taken 100 days after planting.