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The effect of multi-nutrient fertilization on understory vegetation nutrient concentrations in inland Northwest conifer stands |
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| Authors: | Curtis L VanderSchaaf James A Moore James L Kingery |
| Institution: | a Department of Forestry, Virginia Tech University, Cheatham Hall, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA b Department of Forest Resources, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844, USA c Department of Range Resources, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844, USA |
| Abstract: | This study looked at the effects that multi-nutrient fertilization had on understory vegetation nutrient concentrations at four conifer forested locations in the inland Northwest. Multi-nutrient fertilization of conifer stands cannot only enhance the overstory species in the inland Northwest but also the understory vegetation. Determination of nutrient concentration response to fertilization treatments can provide managers the ability to better manipulate their forests for grazing and wildlife habitat. We grouped the understory vegetation into three general life forms: forbs, grasses and grass-likes, and shrubs. Multi-nutrient fertilization had little effect on nitrogen concentration across all life forms. Potassium and sulfur generally increased in concentration. Micronutrients as a whole showed less variability in response to multi-nutrient fertilization. Boron, copper, molybdenum, and zinc generally showed increases in concentrations across all life forms. We were able to conduct analyses on a selected number of understory vegetation species. Individual species showed variability in nutrient concentration response to multi-nutrient fertilization. Wildlife habitat and grazing quality were both increased and decreased following multi-nutrient fertilization. Increases in nutrient concentrations will provide more nutritious vegetation to these animals and vice versa for decreases in concentrations. |
| Keywords: | Fertilization Nutrients Understory vegetation Wildlife habitat |
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