Root System of Balsam Poplar (Populus balsamifera L.)

Abstract

The research aims at studying the features of the balsam poplar root system in the conditions of Arkhangelsk. The relevance of the topic is determined by the poplar multifunctionality in urban conditions. The effectiveness of sanitation functions, phytoremediation, carbon sequestration, and sustainability of poplars is determined by their root system condition. Understanding the specifics of its structure will enable the selection and creation of conditions necessary for the successful growth of trees of this species. Studies of the root system structure, recording the number, diameter, and branching of roots of different orders were carried out on uprooted trees growing isolated as well as in groups. In public gardens, the length of poplar skeletal roots with their subsequent surface excavation was assessed using the Arbotom device with the Arboradix module. A strong foundation in the central part of the root system, formed of the overgrown core, buttress roots of the first order and fibrous roots, provides resistance of poplars to windthrow. The bending of first-order roots early in tree development creates a holding platform for the branch cuttings. The close group growth of poplars leads to “storeying” and deepening of the root system. Poplars growing in groups form a greater number of proximal roots with a smaller diameter compared to isolated growth. Thus, the average diameter of the base of the first-order roots in group growth is 11.5 cm; in single growth – 24.5 cm. The length of poplar skeletal roots in public gardens ranges from 2 to 9 m. Reducing the share of poplars in the plantation by 2.3 times together with a decrease in stand density by 2 times or track area by 2 times leads to an increase in the length of skeletal roots by 1.5–2 times and the formation of a more uniform root system. The results can be used in the design of urban green spaces. For citation: Tyukavina O.N., Popova L.F. Root System of Balsam Poplar (Populus balsamifera L.). Lesnoy Zhurnal = Russian Forestry Journal, 2022, no. 6, pp. 71–81. (In Russ.). https://doi.org/10.37482/0536-1036-2022-6-71-81