Decomposing taproot systems of mature loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) trees
harvested 16 years earlier were examined to assess their effects on product
ivity of a naturally regenerated loblolly pine stand. Productivity by trees
within a l-m radius of decomposing stumps was greater than that in zones f
arther from the stump. Production of the 16-year-old naturally regenerated
loblolly pine stand on this eroded Pacolet soil would have been at least 28
% less in the absence of decomposing root systems of previously harvested t
rees. Live-root density of the natural stand within decomposing root system
s was about twice that found in soil profiles centered 2 and 4 m distant fr
om the stump. Below a soil depth of 20 cm, decomposing root systems contain
ed significantly higher root densities than the soil matrix. Decomposing ro
ot systems provide scattered microsites of enhanced fertility, aeration, an
d moisture which benefit growth of nearby trees and may play an important r
ole in sustaining and restoring productivity of marginal Piedmont sites. (C
) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.