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Some ecological aspects of Sitka spruce

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  05 December 2011

D. C. Malcolm
D. C. Malcolm
Affiliation:
Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Edinburgh, Darwin Building, The King's Buildings, Mayfield Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JU, Scotland, U.K.
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Synopsis

The general adaptations of the species are described in relation to the environment of its natural distribution and are shown to be well suited to its use as an exotic in forestry. What is known of natural stand dynamics has little relevance to the cultivation of the species in pure plantations but the interaction with climate and soils is important in determining the limits to its growth and in prediction of productivity. Atmospheric humidity, windiness and accumulated temperature appear to be the most influential climatic variables and, given adequate soil conditions, can be used to give good estimates of potential production. Sitka spruce flowers freely and regenerates readily, demonstrating its ability to survive unaided in British conditions.

Type
Research Article
Information
Proceedings of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, Section B: Biological Sciences , Volume 93 , Issue 1-2: Sitka Spruce , 1987 , pp. 85 - 92
Copyright
Copyright © Royal Society of Edinburgh 1987

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