Influence of weather on cork-ring width

TitleInfluence of weather on cork-ring width
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2000
AuthorsCaritat, A., Gutiérrez E., & Molinas M.
JournalTree Physiology
Volume20
Pagination893-900
Keywordsclimatic variability, cork growth, cork-ring chro- nology, dendroclimatology, phellogen activity, Quercus suber
Abstract

Ring-width series of cork from Quercus suber L. trees growing at two sites in Extremadura (southwestern Spain) were analyzed in relation to monthly precipitation and temperature, and to climatic indices combining both variables. Ring width of cork showed strong positive correlations with precipitation, especially during the fall and winter. Moderately low temperatures were favorable for cork growth, except in winter and during the onset of phellogen activity. We conclude that drought or temperature, or both, can limit cork growth during the annual drought period.