Comparison of stand density measures for loblolly pine cubic-foot growth prediction

Abstract

Four expressions of stand density were tested in cubic-foot growth multiple regressions in even-aged, managed stands. Stahelin's percent of full stocking, total basal area, Reine.ke's stand density index, and initial merchantable cubic-foot volume were tested as expressions of density, in combination with age and site in regression analyses of cubic-foot growth. Essentially, the same amount of variation in annual cubic-foot growth was explained by each expression in combination with age, site, and certain of their significant interactions from data involving repeat measurements of stands throughout a wide range of initial age, site, and stand density. It is concluded that the cholice among the. variates expressing stand density is primarily at the discretion of the investigator. However, ease of computation and application and the advantages occurring from the use of a direct measure rather than an index suggest the use of basal area unless bioe.conomic analyses are desired.

Citation

Nelson, Thomas C.; Brender, Ernst V. 1963. Comparison of stand density measures for loblolly pine cubic-foot growth prediction. Forest Science. 9(1): 8-14 p.