Rooting Ability of Redberry Juniper Sprouts

Abstract

Redberry juniper (Juniperus pinchotii Sudw.; Cupressaceae) sprout rooting ability was evaluated following their mechanical dislodgement from the shrub bases of a random sample of a Rolling Plains population.  The objectives of the evaluation were to determine if dislodged sprouts are capable of producing adventitious roots and establishing as individual plants.  Twenty-five sprouting shrubs were slashed then top removed with chain saw cuts; random samples of dislodged sprouts from each shrub were placed on gravel and soil and watered monthly on a single bench of the greenhouse.  All of the sprouts placed on gravel died within six months after dislodgement.  Ninety-eight of the sprouts placed on soil survived and 22 of them produced adventitious roots and established as independent plants.  Mechanical manipulation of shrubs can result in their dislodgement.  If dislodged sprouts are dispersed to a site with access to soil and water they can establish as independent plants.  Best management practices would suggest that mechanical manipulation of redberry juniper be deferred or followed by pyric treatment within one year of slashing or top removal to kill dislodged sprouts.