Table 3 Classification standards of five grades for Populus euphratica in the lower Tarim River.
From: How to Regenerate and Protect Desert Riparian Populus euphratica Forest in Arid Areas
DBH(cm) | Growth stage | Age(year) | Growth characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
4–10 | Young trees | 5–15 | Branches grow broad leaves in the upper canopy and narrow leaves in the lower canopy. The trees have no characteristics of blossom and fruit setting. |
10–30 | Near-mature trees | 15–40 | Braches grow broad leaves in the canopy.A small amount of new braches are germinated in the tree trunk. The trees begin to bloom and bear fruit. |
30–40 | Mature trees | 40–60 | Braches grow broad leaves in the canopy. No or few branches wither up. The trees are at the peak period of blossom and fruit setting. |
>40 | Over-mature trees | >60 | Braches grow broad leaves in the canopy.A large number of branches wither up.The trees bear little or no fruit. |
