The soil creep-curved tree fallacy

Richard L. Phipps

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USGS · 70232453

The soil creep-curved tree fallacy

Richard L. Phipps

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Abstract

No evidence has been found in eastern deciduous forests to substantiate statements that curved tree trunks, downslope tilted tree trunks, and upslope trailing tree root systems are the result of soil creep. Curvature and tilting of trunks are described as geotropic and phototropic responses to physical and physiological conditions unrelated to soil creep. The occurrence of upslope trailing of roots has not been demonstrated.

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Richard L. Phipps. 1974. The soil creep-curved tree fallacy. https://pubs.usgs.gov/publication/70232453

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