Phenological Development and Water Relations in Plains Silver Sagebrush

Abstract

Detailed measurements were made on silver sagebrush plants to quantify phenological development, plant water potential, and soil water status. Measurements were made at bi-weekly intervals from early April to late October. A phenological scoring system was employed and the data used in linear regression equations with calendar date or plant water potential as independent variables. Both variables were used successfully in predicting phenological development in silver sagebrush. However, calendar date had less variability around the regression line, and it would therefore probably have greater direct application. The results should prove of value in future autecological studies of the species and will provide important information to manage plant communities that contain silver sagebrush.