Articles

Growth and management of mixed Pinus sylvestris - Quercus robur stands in Flanders, Belgium

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Abstract

Mature  Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris  L.) stands are dominating large parts of the Flemish forest area. Broadleaved  species regenerate spontaneously under this pine canopy. This study studied  the growth and development of two planted pine stands with an older natural  regeneration, dominated by pedunculate oak (Quercus  robur L.), and discussed management options for  similar stands.     The results indicated a rather good growth of the stands, with current  annual increments of 5 m3.ha-1.yr-1. The pine overstorey is growing into valuable sawwood  dimensions, while the broadleaved understorey slowly grows into the  upperstorey. The quality of the regeneration is moderate but can be improved  by silvicultural measurements (pruning, early selection).     In both stands, an interesting (timber production, nature conservation)  admixture of secondary tree species is present in the regeneration. Stand  management is evolving from the classical clearcut system towards a  combination of a type of selection and group selection system.

How to Cite:

Maddelein, D., Neirynck, J. & Sioen, G., (1993) “Growth and management of mixed Pinus sylvestris - Quercus robur stands in Flanders, Belgium”, Silva Gandavensis 58. doi: https://doi.org/10.21825/sg.v58i0.880