Shoot and root growth of young Larix decidua in contrasting microenvironments near the alpine timberline

Shoot and root elongation of young European larch (Larix decidua) growing i n natural soil on E- and N-facing slopes (2180m a.s.l.; inclination 40 degr ees) at the Stillberg experimental area (near Davos, Switzerland) were meas ured during the vegetation periods 1988-1990. Growth and mean growing period are greatly influenced by the microclimate. In spring, roots start growth 3 to 5 weeks earlier than the shoots; shoot e longation ceases at the end of August, whereas root growth continues until temperatures decrease. Shoot and root growth are correlated to air and soil temperature. Root growth increases faster with temperature than shoot grow th.