Allelopathic effects of Engelmann spruce bark stilbenes and tannin–stilbene combinations on seed germination and seedling growth of selected conifers
The allelopathic effects of Engelmann spruce bark and bark extacts on seed germination and seedling growth of several conifer species were examined. Extracts were hydroxystilbenes (isorhapontin and astringin) and condensed tannins. Experiments included the following: (i) seed germination in petri dishes with various concentrations of stilbenes and tannin–stilbenes; (ii) seed germination in petri dishes containing Engelmann spruce bark fragments; (iii) seedling growth in varying mixtures of peat/Engelmann spruce bark, the latter added either before or after seedling establishment; (iv) seedling growth in samples of Engelmann spruce forest soil horizons. In all experiments and in all species there was an allelopathic response to bark extracts. This response was expressed through inhibition of seed germination (seed-coat rupture and radicle emergence), necrotic discoloration and protoplasmic disruption of root-tip cells, suppression of root hairs, and repressed growth in general. Among the conifers tested Pinus ponderosa and Tsuga mertensiana appeared to be the most tolerant to bark extracts, Pinus contorta the most sensitive. Picea engelmannii was moderately sensitive.