| Nutrient's pattern and distribution zones have been established for European (Larix decidua (Mill.)) and Eastern larches (L. laricina ((Du Roi) K. Koch)). Eight stem (four of each species) were sampled at every 20 cm height and for every growth ring. Factorial scores of principal component analysis, obtained from concentrations of P, K, Ca, Mg, Mn et Zn, enabled the establishment of five distribution zones of nutrients in the stem: bark, external zone, transition zone, internal zone and apical zone. The zones established by the factorial scores can be identified with the distribution pattern of P, or better, by the ratios of P between adjoining rings. The highest concentrations of all elements is observed in the bark. For the external zone of the xylem, concentrations of mobile elements (P and K) are the highest, while the concentrations of immobile elements or of intermediate mobility are the lowest (Ca, Mn et Zn). For the internal zone, concentrations of elements are the opposite. |
