The results did not support the hypothesis that there would be greater tree growth in areas of higher sunlight. The south slope receives the greatest amount of sunlight, and the north slope and notch had a greater basal area than the south slope. Light availability is not the only factor that effects tree growth. Competition between trees for resources is limiting on growth. Competition between two organisms has a negative effect on both competitors. Trees compete for not only light availability but also soil water and nutrients. There is limiting amount of nitrogen and phosphorus present in the soil. When two or more trees are competing for these nutrients, the trees will spend additional energy to outcompete other trees for the resources. In species that compete for water and nutrients, the tree may put energy into growing their roots instead of their diameter. Greater competition for resources could also be due to different soil compositions at different slopes. Some soil types make water and nutrients more accessible to trees, and thus promote higher growth rates. In areas with poorer soil, there is an increase in competition for the scarce resources.
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