Tree Physiology

Catalog description

Fundamentals of the relationship of the basic physiological functions of forest trees to form. Tree Physiology is the study of how trees grow and develop in terms of genetics; biochemistry; cellular, tissue, and organ functions; and interaction with environmental factors. While many physiological processes are similar in trees and other plants, trees possess unique properties that help determine their outward appearance. These processes include carbon relations (photosynthesis, carbohydrate allocation), cold and drought resistance, water relations, and mineral nutrition. The characteristics of trees that define their physiology are longevity, height, and simultaneous reproductive and vegetative growth. Trees have physiological processes that are more adaptable than those in other plants. Height allows trees to successfully compete for light, but also creates transport and support problems. This course investigates the anatomy, morphology and physiology of growth, development, and responses of woody plants with particular consideration of the influence of environmental factors on physiological processes. To develop an understanding of tree physiology the following topics will be presented: Organization, development, and function of woody plant tissues Photosynthesis, respiration, and assimilation in forest trees Water relations and mineral nutrition. Tree growth responses to atmospheric and soil condition. Physiology variation among tree species. Herbicides and tree physiology. Methods and tools of tree physiology research.