Root Growth Potential and Microsite Effects on Conifer Seedling Establishment in Northern Idaho

Environmental conditions and seedling quality interact to produce complex patterns of survival growth. Root growth potential (RGP) is one metric that can be rapidly measured prior planting, but the correlation RGP performance not consistent across studies. Site factors including microsite objects cast shade competing vegetation also influence performance. We examined effects RGP, presence/absence a object, competition cover on three native conifers Inland Northwest, USA, over 5 years. found had no effect or western larch (Larix occidentalis), Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii var. glauca), grand (Abies grandis) at mesic north aspect site xeric south site. Comparatively, presence increased odds by 37% for 158% fir, while absence forb 72% 26%. was less sensitive microsites competition. The strong neighborhood around seedlings help inform silvicultural practices enhance establishment planting near shading control, these may as important fir.