Yields in high density, short rotation intensive culture (SRIC)—plantations of Eucalyptus and Other Hardwood Species

Abstract

Initial high density (17,200 trees ha^-1, 6961 trees a^-1) plantations of Eucalyptus grandis yielded up to 22 oven dry tons (ODT) ha-l yr-I (10 ta^-1 yr^-1) on an approximate 6 month rotation. Border effects could not be eliminated from the small sized plots used. Also within 4 years of planting there were substantial differences in tree vigor and survival such that the effective density was reduced by half. Subsequent plantations of several hardwood species at 5000 trees a^-1 and with somewhat better border protection were harvested 2 years after planting; tree survival was greater and in some E. camaldulensis plantings yields were in excess of 37 ODT h-a 1yr^-1 (16.5 ta^-1 yr^-1). Accounting for border pct. E. camaldulensis and E. cam x rudis out-yielded Salix, Acacia, Populus and Ailanthus sp. tested. Current trials are with greater border thickness and compare seedling and clonal plantations of some fast growing eucalyptus selections at planting densities from about 1900 trees a^-1 down to 600 trees a^-1.

Parent Publication

• Proceedings of a workshop on Eucalyptus in California; June 14-16, 1983; Sacramento, California

Citation

Sachs, R.M.; Low, C.B. 1983. Yields in high density, short rotation intensive culture (SRIC)—plantations of Eucalyptus and Other Hardwood Species. In: Standiford, Richard B; Ledig, F Thomas, technical coordinators. Proceedings of a work-shop on Eucalyptus in California, June 14-16, 1983, Sacramento, California. Gen. Tech. Rep. PSW 69. Berkeley, CA: Pacific Southwest Forest and Range Experiment Station, Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture; p. 71-75