Seasonal patterns of net photosynthesis of loblolly pine from diverse origins

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Growth and photosynthesis were examined in seedlings of Pinustaeda L. (loblolly pine) from six widely separated provenances. The seasonal patterns of net photosynthesis were similar for each. Seedling net photosynthesis peaked in late October and net photosynthesis per unit leaf area peaked before midsummer and again in late October. When averaged over the entire season, seedling photosynthesis was greatest for Florida seedlings and least for Arkansas–Oklahoma and Texas seedlings. Seedling photosynthesis was strongly correlated with final size on all sampling dates and when averaged over the entire season. Both leaf area and net photosynthesis per unit leaf area contributed to the differences among provenances. Late season growth and photosynthesis, observed in the Florida provenance, increased provenance differences established early in the growing season.