Distribution of Elements in Aerial Components of Several Natural Jack Pine Stands in Northern Ontario

Concentrations of N, P, K, Ca, and Mg were determined in aerial components of jack pine [Pinitsbanksiana Lamb.] trees growing in 12 stands, representing three age classes, two site classes, and two stocking intensities, all in close proximity on a coarse glacio-fluvial soil deposit, in northern Ontario. Element contents were estimated from these values in conjunction with dry matter functions. Regression equations relating logarithms of element content with logarithms of diameter at breast height were calculated. These were used in association with individual plot stand tables to give total weight per hectare of each element in the aerial parts of each stand. Converted to normal stocking, contents of all elements increased with increasing stand age. Over half of the aboveground N and P, but somewhat less than half of the aboveground K, Ca, and Mg occurred in crowns as opposed to stems in 65-year-old stands.