Shoot and root elongation of young European larch (Larix decidua) growing in natural soil on E- and N-facing slopes (2180m a.s.l.; inclination 40°) at the Stillberg experimental area (near Davos, Switzerland) were measured during the vegetation periods 1988-1990.
Growth and mean growing period are greatly influenced by the microclimate. In spring, roots start growth 3 to 5 weeks earlier than the shoots; shoot elongation ceases at the end of August, whereas root growth continues until temperatures decrease. Shoot and root growth are correlated to air and soil temperature. Root growth increases faster with temperature than shoot growth.