Contrasting seasonal patterns of fine root production for blue oaks (Quercus douglasii) and annual grasses in California oak woodland

In a blue oak woodland in NE California, we used root ingrowth cores to study seasonal patterns of fine root (< 2 mm diameter) production (FRP) for annual grasses and blue oaks (Quercus douglasiiHook and Arn.). At each of three sites (River, Upland and Hilltop) there were three studies: a short-term seasonal study, a long-term cumulative study and a core nutrient enrichment study. In the short-term study, ingrowth cores were installed and harvested in 3-month intervals. Grass and oak FRP dominated in different seasons. Grass FRP was greater in fall (Oct–Dec, 26.0 g m−2 month−1(gmm)) and winter (Jan–Mar, 18.1 gmm), lower in spring (Apr–Jun, 2.9 gmm) and negligible in summer (July–Sep). In contrast, oak FRP was greater in spring (6.1 gmm) with lower, but significant summer growth (2.9 gmm). Grass FRP declined steadily with soil depth (0–40 cm) in all seasons. Oak FRP changed little with soil depth, except in the summer, when production was greatest at lower soil depths. In the long-term study, ingrowth cores were installed and harvested after 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. Oak annual FRP was greater in the long-term study than in the short-term study at the River and Upland sites. Thus production in the short-term study may be an underestimate, due to disturbance effects. Nutrient enrichment of cores with N-P-K increased grass FRP, but surprisingly, decreased oak FRP, suggesting that annual grasses may have competitive advantages in nutrient enriched soil.