Initial Field Testing for Forest Tree Improvement

Abstract

Initial field testing for forest tree improvement is essentially a comparison of genetic groups whether the level of comparison is of species, provenances, or individual trees. A good study design should be as economical as possible, for a given precision, and must be accurate. The latter is simply obtained by restricting the study to a specified set of conditions, replicating adequately within those conditions, and randomizing the groups being compared. Precision is improved by minimizing variation within a sampling unit, by keeping careful, accurate records, and by additional replications. In Puerto Rico, studies utilize one-tree plots, in 16 contour rows per block, three blocks per location, and four to eight locations on a major soil type, a total of 192 to 384 seedlings of each species under test. This arrangement is believed 'to give maximum precision and accuracy at minimum costs, under local conditions.

Citation

Briscoe, C. B. 1963. Initial Field Testing for Forest Tree Improvement. Forest Society Journal 5(13):3-8.