Tree regeneration after fire: Aspen removal experiment, Counts of seedling germination

This research was intended to address the general question of whether asexual stem regeneration of trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) reduces rates of establishment and growth of potential invading conifer species during the initial years following fire. Interactions between aspen and conifers were studied under natural conditions in a burned aspen stand with a high potential for aspen re-sprouting. The study contributes to our understanding of whether competitive interactions between tree seedlings are likely to help maintain deciduous stands across disturbance cycles by reducing the potential for successful conifer establishment.

Counts of seedling germination (total seedlings observed) and net establishment (total seedlings surviving to the end of the experiment), by species. These counts are for seeded sub-plots only.