ABSTRACT
The distribution and dynamics of hayscented fern were examined as part of a largescale study of oak regeneration in Pennsylvania. The study included 69 stands covering 3,333 acres in two physiographic provinces. Hayscented fern was more widely distributed and occurred at higher densities in the Allegheny Plateau physiographic provinces versus the Ridge and Valley region. After partial overstory removal, the density and distribution of fern increased in stands that were not treated with herbicide. Herbicide treatments successfully reduced fern densities and created a “window of opportunity” about 4 years post-harvest for the establishment of regeneration. In the mixed hardwood forests of Pennsylvania, dense groundcover of hayscented fern (Dennstaedtia punctilobula (Michx.) Moore) and other herbaceous species interfere with the development of advance regeneration of oaks (Horsley et al., 1992; Steiner and Joyce 1999). Regeneration of tree seedlings may be adversely affected due to hayscented fern’s ability to influence the availability of light, nutrients, and water (Engelman and Nyland, 2006; George and Bazzaz, 1999; Lyons and Sharpe, 1996; Messier et al., 1989). Hayscented fern has been classified as a competitor species because of its ability to respond aggressively to sudden resource availability by way of vegetation expansion of rhizomes and sexual reproduction through spore dispersal (Groninger and McCormick, 1991; Hughes and Fahey, 1991).
