Growth dynamics of cotton-grass (Eriophorum vaginatum)

Root and leaf growth of the arctic sedge Eriophorum vaginatum L. were studied from early spring (June 7) to early fall (August 7) in the foothills of the Brooks Range in northern Alaska. The observations were designed to test the hypothesis that root and leaf growth occur at similar rates. The results confirmed this hypothesis. The root/leaf biomass ratio remained constant over the growing season. Thus, root biomass can be estimated based on harvested leaf biomass. It was also shown that root and leaf surface areas can be calculated from the respective biomass values. However, changes in the specific weights of leaves and roots over the growing season would affect the accuracy of root biomass or root surface area predictions.