Initial density effect on Eucalyptus globulus growth in a Nelder modified trial

Abstract

The effect of initial planting density on the growth and wood density of Eucalyptus globulus was examined in a trial established in the southeast of Buenos Aires Province, Argentina. A modified Nelder design was used to generate 9 planting densities ranging from 582 to 2.083 trees/ha. The effect of planting density on diameter at breast height, total tree height, basal area, relative bark thickness and wood density was studied over a 10-year period. By reducing the initial density of planting to 761 trees/ha, an increase on individual tree growth was observed, principally on diameter and to a lesser extent on tree height. However, basal area (m2/ha) was greatest at intermediate densities. Initial planting density affected wood basic density at 6 years of age but not relative bark thickness. In conclusion, 1,095 trees/ha was found to be the best initial density to optimize individual and stand growth.