Individual tree control

Abstract

Controlling individual unwanted trees in forest stands is a readily accepted method for improving the value of future harvests. The practice is especially important in mixed hardwood forests where species differ considerably in value and within species individual trees differ in quality. Individual stem control is a mechanical or chemical weeding operation that eliminates undesired trees competing for site resources. Both methods have advantages and disadvantages. The risk of bodily injury is an inherent safety problem with mechanical methods. Injury to desirable plants is a potential problem with chemical methods. However, since herbicides used in control are placed directly on the tree, the potential for plant injury results from "backflash" rather than foliage contact. Backflash is herbicide uptake by untreated trees adjacent to the herbicide-treated trees. This uptake may occur through root grafts, herbicide exuding from roots, or herbicide spillage.

Parent Publication

• Central hardwood notes

Citation

Holt, Harvey A. 1989. Individual tree control. In: Hutchinson, Jay G., ed. Central hardwood notes. St. Paul, MN.: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Forest Service, North Central Forest Experiment Station. 6.10