Spacing and survival

There is no magic spacing to produce the best results when planting your seedlings. Landowner objectives, markets and level of involvement will help dictate the number of trees per acre that should be planted. Planting density should be guided by the productive capacity of the site, as well. Planting at initially high stocking levels will result in a stand that reaches canopy closure quicker than a stand with low stocking levels. The denser stand may produce taller stems as individuals compete for sunlight earlier in stand development. A wider spacing limits the competition between trees but also can result in ‘bushy’ or expanded crowns.

Landowners should find a level of stocking that will meet their objectives. The denser the stand, the earlier a thinning will be required to promote continued growth and stand health. Otherwise, the closely planted trees will stagnate and decline, making them more susceptible to southern pine beetle attack. A stand planted on a 6 ’ X 6 ’ spacing would have 1,210 seedlings per acre, while stands planted on a 10’ X 10’ spacing would initially have 435 seedlings per acre. In areas that are susceptible to southern pine beetle, a spacing of 8’ X 10’ or 10’ X 10’ (435 to 600 trees/acre) is recommended to maintain healthy, vigorously growing trees.

Keep in mind

For the first two summers after planting, conduct a survival check. If cost-share funds were used to establish the planting, it may be necessary to maintain a certain level of live seedlings. The original planting plan should have specified this minimum survival level. Your forester can assist with your survival check.

This is the end of the Planting section. Click on the next button to proceed to Fertilization.