Fluctuations in litter-fall in a mixed deciduous woodland over a three-year period 1966-68.

Tree and shrub litter-fall was collected at fortnightly intervals over a three-year period on a reference hectare in a mixed deciduous woodland growing on a calcareous site in northern England. The annual total of all litter types varied from 499 g/m² to 525 g/m² in the three years. Non-woody litter varied from 363 g/m² to 393 g/m² and showed low variability both between collection sites and between years whilst woody litter varied from 106 g/m² to 162 g/m² and showed high variability. Seasonal pattern in litter-fall was very marked, up to 81 % of the annual total falling in the period September to November. The difference in leaf-fall periodicity between hazel and the overstorey was clearly demonstrated during each of the three years considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]