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Home → Publications → Forest Regeneration Manual → Chapter 15 - Initial Spacing - How Many Trees To Plant

Chapter 15 - Initial Spacing - How Many Trees To Plant

The best initial spacing at which to plant the southern pines is primarily a function of the product desired and is based on both biological and operational factors. Long-term spacing studies over a wide range of initial densities and tree species demonstrate that for rotations beyond approximately 20 years, initial density has little effect on total net wood yield. However, it has a pronounced effect on product size and distribution, value, cost and on harvesting and cultural treatments. Planting seedlings on 2.4 x 2.4 to 3.0 x 3.0 m or equivalent spacing provides good flexibility for plantation management under most landowner objectives and current market conditions.


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Author(s): William D. Smith, Michael R. Strub

Publication: Forest Regeneration Manual