Biomass Allocation and Root Characteristics of Early-Stage Poplars (Populus spp.) for Assessing Their Water-Deficit Response During SRC Establishment

Abstract Early above- and belowground biomass fractionation, root diameter composition allocation of cumulated fine length per total leaf area Populus clones have been measured for a pre-assessment the risk plantation establishment during spring drought conditions. Four × euramericana , one P. nigra maximowiczii clone (cv. Max 3), were planted in sandy mix substrate exposed to normal deficit watering regime over 65-day greenhouse experiments conducted early summer. The hybrids showed plasticity their fractions. Although 3 was among productive clones, even under watering, it not able respond plastically watering. It no increase fraction ratio area. Therefore, should be high drought. Planting investigated water likely involves lower risk, but differences within this group must considered. can concluded that response roots unit is suitable traits improve assessments are based on yield poplar Percent plant loss data at end first SRC rotation will verify present assessment.