Intra- and Inter-Tree Variability of Moisture Content in Standing Sessile Oak (Quercus petraea Liebl.)

Abstract

Summary Knowledge about the moisture content of trees in the forest or wood yard is scarce. The variation of moisture content within and between 20 boles of sessile oak was investigated using 1543 measurements performed at three heights in each tree and along 4 radii. Five radial positions were defined: sapwood, outer, intermediate and inner heartwood, and the core piece including the pith. Results show that the average moisture content is highly dependent on the individual. The average moisture content was around 80%(oven-dried basis), but it ranges from 65% to 100%depending on the tree. This “tree” effect is discussed and examined using some general characteristics of the trees (region, stand structure, site quality, dendrometric and densitometric traits). Apart from age counted from pith, and the ratio of tree height vs. diameter, no strong correlation appears. Moderate variations in moisture content with radial position and height are also brought to the fore. The specific role of sapwood, which exhibits a more variable moisture content is discussed.