The use of electrical resistance of cambium and phloem as a measure of tree vigor

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Abstract
Cambial electrical resistance (CER) of Norway spruce (Picea abies Karst.) was measured in relation to wood temperature. The linear function obtained was used to correct CER values from field experiments to a standard temperature. A fairly good correlation was obtained between the growth rate and CER of both dominant and suppressed trees. The average value of CER in a sample of spruce trees was relatively low in summer, increased by 100% in the autumn and started decreasing again the following March. Drought stress in a field experiment resulted in a significant increase in CER, which was inversely correlated with bark moisture. A review of the literature concerning the use of CER is presented, and the relevance of estimating CER is discussed, particularly regarding stress and diseases.