Whole tree harvesting in Sitka spruce. Possibilities and implications.

  • M.L. Carey Forest and Wildlife Service, Sidmonton Place, Bray, Co. Wicklow, Ireland.
Keywords: Whole tree harvesting, Sitka spruce, Picea sitchensis, site fertility, slash removal, nutrients, energy content of slash.

Abstract

A study was carried out in a 50 year-old crop of Sitka spruce, Yield Class 20, in order to determine: (i) The extent to which total production could be increased through implementing complete tree harvesting, and (ii) The effect this would have on site fertility. The result showed that the stemwood and bark represented 62%, the slash 20% and the roots 18% of the total dry matter production. Although inclusion of the slash in the final harvest would result in a very large increase in the amounts of nutrients removed, it is concluded that this would have serious consequences for site fertility only on impoverished mineral soils with low reserves of organic matter. Data are included on the actual value of the nutrients (N, P and K only) in the slash and on its energy content.
Published
1980-11-01
How to Cite
Carey, M. (1980) “Whole tree harvesting in Sitka spruce. Possibilities and implications.”, Irish Forestry. Available at: https://journal.societyofirishforesters.ie/index.php/forestry/article/view/9456 (Accessed: 28March2024).
Section
Articles