Trait responses of three tallgrass perennials to interactions

This study explored roots and shoots traits of three perennial plants native to tallgrass ecosystems in the United States (Silphum integrefolium - SCSC, Dalea Purpurea - DAPU, and Silphum integrefolium - SIIN) grown in eight-inch round pots outdoors and cold frames for six weeks in the summer of 2023 at the Chicago Botanic Garden in Illinois, USA. The plants were grouped in the following treatment combinations: 1) control where the plant was grown alone, 2) monoculture with two individuals of the same species, 3) triculture at density one with all three species but with only one individual of SCSC and two individuals of SIIN and DAPU, and 4) a density level two where there were two individuals of each species. Traits included: number of leaves, number of flowers, rooting depth, dry mass, RMF, total root length, root tip count, and rooting volume.