Change in Forest Canopy Affects Phenology and Development of Northern Red and Scarlet Oak Seedlings

Based on 384 seedlings of each oak species, the presence or absence of a forest canopy affected date of budbreak and rate of early development of northern red oak and scarlet oak seedlings. Seedlings growing in shade, including those removed from shade in January, broke dormancy ahead of seedlings growing in the open. The early budbreak and rapid development of seedlings removed from shade in January increased vulnerability to frost. Some of the difficulties associated with the regeneration of oak after heavy harvest cuttings may be related to the phenological relationship between time of budbreak and canopy removal. Forest Sci. 21:175-179.