This study compared the growth, phenology, and leaf demography of partly defoliated, connected shoots with that of partly defoliated, severed shoots in four old-field perennials (Solidago canadensis, S. altissima, S. gigantea, Aster lanceolatus) with differing rhizome systems, in a common garden and in the field. Removing about 50% of the total leaf area from shoots had different effects depending on plant species, shoot density, and in particular whether rhizome connections between shoots were left intact or severed. Isolated shoots in the field or in high density clumps in the garden suffered the most from defoliation, while shoots with intact connections or in low density clumps suffered the least. Solidagoaltissima showed overcompensation in response to simulated herbivory in the common garden-defoliated shoots grew faster and were larger at harvest than non-defoliated neighbors.
Citations and enhanced abstracts for journals articles and documents focused on rangeland ecology and management. RSIS is a collaboration between Montana State University, University of Idaho, and University of Wyoming.