Catkin Freezing and Acorn Production in Gambel Oak in Utah, 1978
Neilson RP and Wullstein LH. 1980. Catkin Freezing and Acorn Production in Gambel Oak in Utah, 1978. American Journal of Botany. 67(3):426-428
In May 1978, a general freeze of the male flowers of Gambel oak (Quercus gambelii Nutt.) was observed in northern Utah. In August, transect reconnaissance was conducted throughout Utah to assess acorn production and the incidence of freeze damage in Gambel oak. It was found that below ca. 1950 m elevation acorn production was relatively low while the incidence of freeze damage was high. Above ca 1950 m elevation, where the oaks were still dormant at the time of the freeze, acorn production was relatively high while freeze damage was relatively low. Occasional acorn production observed at low elevations appeared to be associated with subterranean pooling of water and/or cold air drainage. Some biogeographic implications of freeze stress are discussed.
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Neilson, R.; Wullstein, L.
- Units
- SODN
- Keywords
- acorn production, freezing, Gambel oak, Utah