Water stress response after thinning Pinus contorta stands in Montana.

Abstract

Late summer leaf water potential was significantly higher (0.17-0.35 MPa) in thinned stands than in controls; 21% greater seasonal photosynthesis could occur in these trees as a result of the approx 0.3MPa higher plant water potential measured and additional radiation available to remaining trees. This additional photosynthate could substantially increase the amount of carbon allocated to stem growth in these trees. -from Authors