Leaf area and structural changes after thinning in even-aged Picea rubens and Abies balsamea stands in Maine, USA

Abstract

We tested the hypothesis that changes in leaf area index (LAIm2 m-2) and mean stand diameter following thinning are due to thinning type and residual density. The ratios of pre- to postthinning diameter and LAI were used to assess structural changes between replicated crown, dominant, and low thinning treatments to 33% and 50% residual density in even-aged Picea rubens and Abies balsamea stands with and without a precommercial thinning history in Maine, USA. Diameter ratios varied predictably by thinning type: low thinnings were 0.7 but 1.0 . LAI change was affected by type and intensity of thinning. On average, 33% density reduction removed 50% of LAI. Overall reduction of LAI was generally greatest in dominant thinnings (54%), intermediate in crown thinnings (46%), and lowest in low thinnings (35%). Upon closer examination by crown classes, the postthinning distribution of LAI between upper and lower crown classes varied by thinning history, thinning method, and amount of density reduction.

Citation

DeRose, R. Justin; Seymour, Robert S. 2012. Leaf area and structural changes after thinning in even-aged Picea rubens and Abies balsamea stands in Maine, USA. International Journal of Forestry Research. 2012: Article ID 181057.