Seedling growth rate of 3 subspecies of big sagebrush

Abstract

Differences in growth rate among 3 subspecies of big sagebrush (basin big sagebrush, mountain big sagebrush, and Wyoming big sagebrush) for mature plants have been reported by a number of workers. Little has been reported on comparisons of seedling growth rate among these 3 subspecies. Results of this study indicated that (1) over an extended period and in a non-water-limiting environment, the rate of seedling growth In Wyoming big sagebrush approached zero and was less than that of seedlings of basin and mountain big sagebrush; (2) basin and mountain big sagebrush continued to have nonnegligible growth rates even at the end of the study; and (3) Wyoming big sagebrush reached its point of maximum growth rate approximately 2 weeks earlier than did the other 2 subspecies. It appears that Wyoming big sagebrush has evolved, placing 2 important growth characteristics under genetic control: (1) the maximum growth rate is attained earlier (when more water is available to sustain such growth) than in the other 2 subspecies, possibly enhancing its ability to survive on xeric sites during the early stages of growth; and (2) top growth produces smaller aboveground parts, enhancing survival after the early stages.