Native Plants Journal - Article

Genetic considerations in the operational production of hardwood nursery stock in the eastern United States

Abstract:

A recent survey of forest tree nurseries in the
eastern US indicated that hardwood tree
improvement is not extensively practiced at an
operational level, with only 6.8% of hardwood
seedlings produced from improved materials
(compared to 36% for conifer seedlings at
those nurseries that produce both). Fine hardwoods
represent less than 20% of improved
hardwood seedling production. Most respondents
indicated that the use of genetically
improved materials would benefit forestry in
their region; however, less than 40% have
germplasm of hardwood species in improvement
programs. Because most respondents
stated their intention to use more genetically
improved hardwood material in seedling production
over the next 10 y, availability of
improved materials will likely limit future use.
More integration of research involving genetic
improvement into operational nursery production
will help sustain the future value and supply
of our hardwood forest resource.

Issue & Pages:

Spring 2005 Pages: 4-13

Article Download:

6-1NPJ4-13.pdf (PDF document)

Authors:

• Douglass F Jacobs
• Anthony S Davis

Keywords:

tree improvement, seed zones, seed orchards, forestry, timber production, restoration