ARS | Publication request: Canada Thistle Phenology: Emergence, Growth, Anthesis, and Death of Shoots

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: February 9, 2007
Publication Date: February 9, 2007
Citation: Forcella, F., Archer, D.W., Spokas, K.A. 2007. Canada Thistle Phenology: Emergence, Growth, Anthesis, and Death of Shoots [Abstract]. Weed Science Society of America. Available: http://www.wssa.net.

Technical Abstract: Natural and experimental populations of Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense) were monitored at separate sites in western Minnesota, USA, for two and four years, respectively. Both populations responded similarly to environmental cues, except during the "establishment" year for the experimental population. Otherwise, shoots consistently reached 20, 40, and 60% relative emergence at about 250, 400, and 600 GDD (base temp. = 0 deg C at 5-cm depth). Thereafter, shoot emergence could not be predicted reliably across sites and years. Heights of the tallest shoots consistently reached half their maximum heights at the summer solstice (21 June), but absolute heights varied annually. Shoot mortality during the summer was 25% of the total emerged shoots, and its initial occurrence coincided with flower bud development. Appearance of the first visible flower bud preceded the summer solstice by 10 d, and first anthesis followed 20 d later. Canada thistle phenology is affected by site-specific factors: microclimate, which is variable; and photoperiod, which is not. Both factors can be used alone and in combination to predict aspects of Canada thistle development.