The Effect of Density on the Height-Diameter Relationship

Abstract

Using stand density along with mean diameter to predict average height increases the proportion of explained variance. This result, obtained from permanent plots established in a loblolly pine plantation thinned to different levels, makes sense. We know that due to competition, trees with the same diameter are taller in denser stands. Diameter and density are not only necessary, but may be sufficient for determining tree height because other factors affecting height are reflected by diameter and density. In the process of developing the proposed model we found that height increases monotonically with density and that this increase is not bounded by an asymptote. Contrary to our expectations, the inclusion of density did not bring the allometric parameter of diameter closer to the theoretical value of 2/3.

Citation

Zeide, Boris; Vanderschaaf, Curtis. 2002. The Effect of Density on the Height-Diameter Relationship. In: Gen. Tech. Rep. SRS-48. Asheville, NC: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Southern Research Station. pg. 463-466