Natural regeneration of eastern hemlock: a review

Daniel L. Goerlich; Ralph D. Nyland

Treesearch

Natural regeneration of eastern hemlock: a review

Informally Refereed

Authors:

Daniel L. Goerlich, Ralph D. Nyland

Year:

2000

Type:

General Technical Report

Station:

Northern Research Station

Source:

In: McManus, Katherine A.; Shields, Kathleen S.; Souto, Dennis R., eds. Proceedings: Symposium on sustainable management of hemlock ecosystems in eastern North America. Gen. Tech. Rep. NE-267. Newtown Square, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northeastern Forest Experiment Station. 14-22.

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Abstract

Successful regeneration of eastern hemlock involves a complex biophysical process that commonly spans many years. Critical factors include a reliable source of seed, a suitable seedbed, a partially shaded environment, and several years of favorable moisture. Surface scarification appears critical as a means of site preparation. Even then, young hemlocks grow slowly, and commonly take several years to reach a size suitable for overstory release. Uniform partial cutting, shelterwood method, and patch cutting have all proven effective as strategies for regenerating hemlock. Reserve strip cutting also appears promising.

Parent Publication

Proceedings: symposium on sustainable management of hemlock ecosystems in eastern North America

Citation

Goerlich, Daniel L.; Nyland, Ralph D. 2000. Natural regeneration of eastern hemlock: a review. In: McManus, Katherine A.; Shields, Kathleen S.; Souto, Dennis R., eds. Proceedings: Symposium on sustainable management of hemlock ecosystems in eastern North America. Gen. Tech. Rep. NE-267. Newtown Square, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northeastern Forest Experiment Station. 14-22.