Tree regeneration after fire: Aspen removal experiment, soil moisture and pH 2001

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.

Data from soil samples collected with a hand corer (one sample/plot) on 20 July 2001. Wet and dry measurements were made for moisture calculations and pH was measured using an electronic probe submersed in a distilled water/soil slurry.

本研究旨在解答通用科学问题：美洲山杨（Populus tremuloides Michx.）的无性茎再生，是否会在火灾发生后的初始数年，降低潜在入侵针叶树种的定植率与生长速率。本研究在一片具备高山杨萌蘖潜力的火烧山杨林分中，于自然条件下探究了山杨与针叶树之间的种间互作关系。本研究有助于明确：树木幼苗间的竞争互作，是否可通过降低针叶树成功定植的可能性，助力落叶林分在干扰周期中得以维持。
土壤样品采集于2001年7月20日，采用手持土钻（hand corer）进行采样，每个样地采集1份样品。通过湿重与干重测定计算土壤含水率，并采用浸没于蒸馏水-土壤悬液（soil slurry）的电子探针测定土壤pH值。