Foliar nutrient resorption in two Mojave Desert shrubs exposed to Free-Air CO2 Enrichment (FACE)

► Elevated atmospheric CO2 may increase desert plant growth and nutrient demand. ► Increased nutrient resorption may result in lower leaf litter quality. ► Greater nutrient retention occurs in a dry (low growth) vs. wet (high growth) year. ► Precipitation has a stronger effect on nutrient resorption in desert shrubs than CO2.