Root Decomposition and root in-growth rates for GCE marsh sites 6-9 from June 2003 to June 2004

Rates of decomposition and root in-growth were measured in four tidal marshes of the Georgia coast (USA) that vary in freshwater input. Replicate nylon mesh bags containing roots of dominant plant species were buried 20cm deep in marsh sediments at stream-side levee and marsh plain locations within GCE sampling sites 6, 7, 8 and 9 in June 2003. Dry weight, carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus content, and root in-growth were measured initially and every three months to evaluate the effects of freshwater input on root decomposition and growth rates. This study was part of the GCE-LTER soil monitoring program.