Effects of organic mulching and fertilization treatments on root growth, nutrient partitioning and ectomycorrhizal populations of river birch
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Date
2002
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The Ohio State University
Abstract
A relative lack of research on the effects of organic soil amendments in plant production and establishment is an obstacle to the rational use of these environmentally friendly resources. Mycorrhizas are symbiotic associations between some soil-home fungi and the root systems of the majority of plants, and have been demonstrated to be beneficial to the fitness of the plant hosts. This study quantified and partially characterized populations of ectomycorrhizal fungi colonizing the roots of River birch (Betula nigra) trees grown in experimental plots under different treatments that included mulching with composted yard waste or shredded wood pallets, and N-P-K fertilization. It also evaluated root growth with respect to nitrogen cycling and nutrient partitioning within the plant. The various mulching and fertilization treatments, alone and in combination, were expected to elicit changes in ectomycorrhizal populations. Treatment appeared to affect the occurrence of morphotypes with a significantly higher diversity being found in the yard waste plots. Fertilization appeared to decrease total root mass/length, while mulching significantly increased colonization percentage. Carbon ratios of the mulches affected nitrogen cycling and thus nutrient allocation within the trees. Results of this study suggest that use of compost in tree establishment and maintenance may indirectly contribute to overall tree health by balancing available carbon and nitrogen stores. Thus, this study indicates that composted soil amendments may be a viable and superior alternative to mineral fertilization.