Effects of rainfall and simulated browsing on the growth of Acacia georginae (F.M. Bailey) in arid central Australia.

Abstract

Leafy shoots of Acacia georginae were subjected to different combinations of pruning and defoliation, and their subsequent growth patterns recorded over two and a half years. Rainfall and soil moisture records were also kept. Rainfall, soil moisture, new growth and old leaf loss showed variable patterns from year to year and generally were not strongly related to each other. Light pruning was followed by increased leaf growth, with apparent stimulation, whereas heavy pruning and defoliation appeared to be detrimental to growth, mainly in that removed growth was not replaced. Actual inhibition could not be established.