Flower Abundance, Premature Acorn Abscission, and Acorn Production in Quercus alba L.

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Abstract
Flower abundance and its relationship to acorn crop size on 4 Q. alba L. trees in Patrick County, Virginia [USA], was studied for 4 yr. Acorn production was significantly related to spring flower abundance. A linear model was developed which accounted for 83.7% of the variation in acorn crops. Acorn mortality during development was quantified during 2 of the 4 yr. Mortality was gradual with .apprx. 70% of the flowers failing to produce mature acorns.