Nonstructural Carbohydrates in Roots of Gambel Oak Sprouts Following Herbicide Treatment

Abstract

Total nonstructural carbohydrate (TNC) concentrations in roots of Gambel oak sprouts as affected by herbicide applications were studied. TNC content varied significantly with changes in phenological stage and herbicide treatment. The storage cycle in sprout roots was found to differ considerably from that previously reported for roots of mature Gambel oak. Data from this study suggested that hormone-type herbicide applications should be made prior to the full leaf stage for maximum effectiveness. Roots of untreated oak sprouts in low densities contained significantly lower levels of TNC's compared to roots in high densities. No herbicide treatment reduced root TNC levels either 1 year following initial treatment or subsequent to second-year repeat applications. On the other hand, several herbicide treatments caused significant increases in root TNC's as compared with controls.