A modified tree classification for use in growth studies and timber marking in Black Hills ponderosa pine

Abstract

A satisfactory silvicultural management of ponderosa pine stands requires a judicious selection of trees to be left in the reserve stand. The timber marker must know what type of tree has the greatest growth potentialities and what type of tree will respond but slightly upon being released. The silvicultural problem in marking therefore is one of recognizing the combination of characters, age, and crown vigor, which indicate high or low growth capacities. The trees selected for cutting should be those which have ceased growing or which have lost their ability to respond to an increase in light, nutrient substances, and soil moisture. The trees of merchantable size which are left to form the nucleus of the second cut should be those which will respond most to release and maintain their productive capacity for the greatest number of years.

Citation

Hornibrook, E. M. 1939. A modified tree classification for use in growth studies and timber marking in Black Hills ponderosa pine. Journal of Forestry. 37(6): 483-488.