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We show the potential of a new method combining tree-ring analyses on stems and on coarse roots of individual trees in order to advance the understanding of growth dynamics in forest trees. To this end, we studied the root–shoot allometry of trees and its dependence on site conditions. Along a gradient in water supply in Southern Germany from dry to moist sites we selected 43 Norway spruce trees (Picea abies [L.] H. Karst.) aged 65–100 years. Increment cores were taken from stem and main roots revealing aboveground and belowground growth course over the last 34 years. Annual growth rates in roots and stems and their allometric relationships were applied as surrogate variables for tree resource allocation to aboveground and belowground organs. The mean sensitivities of both stem and root chronologies were found to be site-specific, and increased from the moist through the dry sites. No …