Detection of freeze-thaw episodes in xylem of trunks and branches by measuring variations in xylem diameter, xylem water content, and sap flow velocity

Abstract

We demonstrated that freeze-thaw episodes of trunks and branches of trees growing in the field can be detected by measuring xylem diameter variations using the strain-gauge method, by measuring trunk water content using the amplitude domain reflectometry method (ADR) and by measuring sap flow velocity using the heat ratio method (HRM). This study clarifies new parameters to monitor accurately the freeze-thaw episodes of trunks and branches of trees growing in the boreal forest.