Water Use of Hybrid Poplar (Populus deltoides Bart. ex Marsh $$\times$$ P. nigra L. “AF2”) Growing Across Contrasting Site and Groundwater Conditions in Western Slovakia

Abstract The water use by short rotation coppices (SRC) has been a focus of ongoing research in the last decades. Nevertheless, investigations that consider site factors and present long-term monitoring components balance are rare. This quantified tree-based transpiration 4th growing season uncoppiced 1st rotational hybrid poplar stands ( Populus deltoides Bart. ex Marsh × P. nigra L . “AF2”) western Slovakia. aim study was to determine influence meteorological soil-related conditions on rates. Three experimental plots were located Morava River floodplains, loamy sand-textured soils with different groundwater accessibilities: higher, low, fluctuating level. We measured sap flow (Heat Ratio Method), volumetric content, matric potential, level, variables throughout 2019. results indicated three sites almost constant during period, which characterized distinct conditions. average cumulative at higher level (1105 mm) larger than lower (632 (863 mm). A principal component analysis (PCA) correlation identified contribution differed among sites. Soil availability accessibility critical for SRC. concluded combination needs be reconsidered expansion sustainable plantations Europe.