Macroelement changes of Trachystemon orientalis (L.) G. Don (Boraginaceae) under different forest communities

Abstract

In this study, the effects of different forest communities on the macroelement (N, P and K) concentrations in above and below ground organs of Trachystemon orientalis (L.) G. Don individuals according to different phenophases were investigated. In both forest communities, macroelement concentrations of aboveground parts were higher than that of belowground parts during vegetative growth period while belowground parts were rich in macroelement concentrations as compared to aboveground parts during generative growth period. In addition to these, N, P and K concentrations of T. orientalis individuals under Fagus orientalis Lipsky (Fagaceae) forest were higher than that of the individuals under Carpinus orientalis Miller subsp. orientalis (Corylaceae) forest. The soils under these forests were rich in nutrients during vegetative growth period as compared to generative growth period. Some T. orientalis individuals were remained at vegetative phase although some of them were completed their growth cycles.