Effects of Early Spring Burning and Mesquite Density on Plant Species Composition, Biomass, and Stem Density in Hardland Range

Abstract

The effects of early spring burning and mesquite density on plant species composition, biomass, and stem density in Hardland range were investigated at Ft. Sill Military Reservation during 1985. Results from this study showed that there are distinct differences in the effects of early spring burning on the plant communities associated with different densities of mesquite. The presence or absence of brome and/or litter appeared to be the maior influencing factors. After burning, mesquite free areas had an increase in plant diversity and perennial grasses, and a decrease in brome. Mesquite free areas decreased in standing crop biomass and stem density at all heights after burning. In high mesquite density areas, burning increased plant diversity and the relative number of perennial grasses. Brome was reduced by burning. Burning decreased standing crop biomass and stem density early in the growing season and increased standing crop biomass and stem density late in the growing season, in comparison to unburned high mesquite density areas. The effects, however, were only temporary because brorne recolonized the areas after two years. In low mesquite density areas, burning increased standing crop biomass, stem density, plant diversity, and to some degree, the relative number of perennial grasses.