Leaf Analysis and Shoot Production in Phragmites

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Abstract
Leaves of Phragmites were obtained from several locations differing greatly from one another. After air drying they were analyzed for Na, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, Al, P and N. Shoot weights also were obtained. The data obtained have been used to assess nutrient limitations affecting growth. The importance of the principal nutrients in shoot production is shown and the levels of certain of these nutrients, particularly N, show agreement with the predictions made from a knowledge of the habitats. There is evidence suggesting that in some sites the concentration of leaf Ca may limit shoot weight, but in other sites shoot production is correlated with the weight of N per leaf. Signs of K, Mg and P deficiency were noticed but were less common. The interpretation of data is complicated by the fact that signs of deficiency may often exist in the uppermost leaves of large and flourishing plants. It is shown that K, Mg and N are evacuated to the rhizomes in the autumn whereas other elements including Na, Ca, Fe and Mn are retained in the dead leaves.