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Effects of cultural treatments on the establishment and initial growth of black locust on mine spoil for biomass production

Conference · · Univ. Ky., Off. Eng. Serv., (Bull.); (United States)
OSTI ID:5410111
In 1979 a black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) biomass plantation was established on surface mine spoil in southeastern Kentucky near Middlesboro. Seedlings were planted at 2 spacings (0.9 x 0.9 m and 1.8 x 1.8 m), and 2 rates of broadcast direct seeding (6 and 12 kg/ha) were tested. Other variables included irrigation, initial and annual fertilization, bark mulch, and herbaceous vegetation competition. After one season, fertilized seedlings were significantly greater in height than unfertilized seedlings in both the seedling and direct seeded plots. Fertilized and unfertilized seedlings averaged 61.9 and 47.8 cm, respectively. Survival of planted seedlings ranged from 85 to 95% and was not affected by treatment. Direct seeded plots averaged 23,750 and 8875 seedlings/ha for the 12 and 6 kg/ha seeding rates, respectively. Damage from the locust twig borer has been a major problem in this plantation.
Research Organization:
Univ. of Kentucky, Lexington
OSTI ID:
5410111
Report Number(s):
CONF-801263-
Conference Information:
Journal Name: Univ. Ky., Off. Eng. Serv., (Bull.); (United States)
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English