Thinning interval in young Douglas-fir stands

Abstract

Thinning interval is a very important parameter in the management of fast growing stands. Hart-Beckings distance factor (s%) has been proposed to quantify this interval. Variations of s% in relation to individual diameter increment have been examined in experimental thinning plots in young Douglas-fir stands. Results show that for this fast growing species thinning interval should not be more than 6-7 years, Thus individua1 diameter increment is kept sufficiently uniform, with positive effects both from the biological and the economic point of view.