Effects of bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) shading on red maple (Acer rubrum) and red oak (Quercus rubra) seedlings.

Abstract

In this study, we investigated the effects of the shade produced by bracken fern on red maple and red oak seedling growth. While both red maple and red oak are considered shade-tolerant species, mature red maples exhibit a higher degree of shade tolerance than mature red oaks (Barnes and Wagner, 1981). It is possible that the levels of shade tolerance in seedlings correspond to those found in adults. We also investigated the differences in seedling response to bracken fern shading between red maples and red oaks. Research conducted by Sarnecki (1986) showed no significant difference in shoot growth of maple seedlings due to different light conditions in the presence or absence of bracken fern over a four week period. Since shoots can grow very little over short periods of time, we took measurements of leaf growth and chlorophyll to demonstrate change in plant development during our observation period.