Carbohydrate Reserves of Six Mountain Range Plants as Related to Growth

Abstract

The total available carbohydrate reserves of six native mountain range plants were studied through a growing cycle. The reserves showed somewhat similar trends as plants advanced in growth during their annual cycle. Minimum root reserves were reached during the early spring after producing approximately 15 percent of their annual growth. Maximum reserves were reached at or near flowering. The average level of root reserves at any one period varied widely among species, however.