Root biomass of regenerating aspen (Populus tremuloides) stands of different densities in Alberta

In north-central Alberta, 12 plots (9 m2) were hydraulically excavated in young trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) stands (5-10 years old) of different sucker density to quantify the effects of sucker density on the parental root system, on the formation of new roots and on the growth of suckers. All roots were collected and divided into live and dead parental roots and new root categories. Size and age of parent roots at the time of suckering were determined. Total biomass ranged from 1 to 18 t/ha of live roots. Living root biomass was proportional to stand density and leaf area index (LAI). Low-density stands had a higher proportion of dead roots. Suckers in plots with more parental root biomass/sucker had greater height growth. Root/shoot ratios ranged from 0.46 to 3.52 but were not correlated with stand densities. Stands with larger basal area of suckers and greater mean parent root diameter produced more biomass of new roots. This research suggests that young sucker-origin aspen stands support a large underground biomass and that high sucker densities and LAI are required to prevent loss of parental root biomass.