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Stem Girdling by Ice

An unusual type of stem girdling was observed while measuring 2-yearold Virginia pine seedlings during January 1958, on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. When several seedlings. whose stem diameter was just a little less than that of a common lead pencil were found partially or completely girdled at a point from 1/2 to 1-inch above the ground, blame was placed on nice. Then the real cause of the damage was discovered. Skim ice had formed around seedlings growing in low spots, and wind action caused the seedlings to rub against the ice. This abrasive action was sufficient to damage the seedlings. Once the ice melted, the cause dissapeared.


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Author(s): Craig D. Whitesell

Publication: Tree Planters' Notes - Issue 35 (1959)