Morphology and Transpiration Rate after Planting of Containerized Sugi (Cryptomeria japonica) Seedlings

Abstract

The nursing condition of a containerized seedling results in a large shoot-root ratio, which could cause it severe water stress after planting. The present study aimed to clarify the relationship between the form of a seedling and the severity of water stress after planting, which was the basis of evaluation basis for the proper planting of seedlings. We planted the containerized Cryptomeria japonica seedlings during late August and early September. The severity of water stress was evaluated by transpiration rate. The taller seedling tended to have a higher H/D ratio (height to diameter ratio) and higher shoot to fine-root ratio. The transpiration rate of the seedling with a higher shoot to fine-root ratio tended to be lower. The seedling with a lower transpiration rate tended to have a slower root growth after planting. We suggested that the taller seedlings may suffer severer water stress after planting and need more time to establish a balance between leaf mass and fine root mass after planting