Genetic variation in California oaks

Abstract

In forestry the importance of genetic variation for successful reproduction, survival and growth has been widely documented for commercial conifers; until recently, little genetic work has been done on the California oaks. Even before the nature of genetic variation was scientifically investigated, its importance was suspected in operational forestry. Many failures of commercial plantations were traced to the use of seedlings that, although of native species, were derived from populations distant from the planting site. Similarly, in areas that were regenerated with planted seedlings following catastrophic fires, trees of non-local origin grew poorly, if at all.

Citation

Millar, Constance I.; Delany, Diane L.; Riggs, Lawrence A. 1990. Genetic variation in California oaks. Fremontia 18(3):20-21