Competitive Effects of Bluebunch Wheatgrass, Crested Wheatgrass, and Cheatgrass211 on Antelope Bitterbrush Seedling Emergence and Survival

摘要

The competitive environment into which plant seedlings emerge often determines211u001ethe survival and performance of these individuals. This study was designed to 211u001edetermine the effects of bluebunch wheatgrass (Pseudoroegneria spicata), crested 211u001ewheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum), and cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) on soil 211u001emoisture depletion, associated antelope bitterbrush (purshia tridentata) seedling 211u001eemergence, xylem pressure potential, and subsequent survival, Antelope 211u001ebitterbrush seedling xylem pressure potentials were less negative in the 211u001ebluebunch wheatgrass plots compared with the other plots. Percent antelope 211u001ebitterbrush seedling survival over 2 years was significantly higher (nearly 211u001etwice) when grown in association with bluebunch wheatgrass than seedlings grown 211u001ein association with crested wheatgrass, cheatgrass, or bur buttercup.