Low Density planting

Eric Wannlund gave a talk on “Climate Smart Pine Establishment” at the sustainable Forestry Initiative® program in Palestine in November. Eric, a staff forester with the Texas A&M Forest Service in College Station, talked about growing pine at lower density.
Historically we have planted about 726 pine seedlings per acre to produce maximum fiber with the first thinning being primarily pulpwood. Now with a soft pine pulpwood market, it is difficult to market first thinnings. Eric mentioned the trend towards lower density plantings of 300-500 trees per acre to produce maximum sawtimber and minimum pulpwood.
Also, since there are fewer rows, planting costs are cheaper. Knots are usually not significant until spacing is lowered to 150 trees per acre, but to reduce the chance of excessive branching, Eric says to use quality seedlings, which produce a more narrow crown.
Eric quoted a study in Louisiana that showed successful plantings of 200-300 seedlings per acre, 200 being the best. Containerized seedlings are needed for better survival, which is crucial in low density plantings, especially on droughty sites. Planting was recommended as soon as moisture is available in the fall.
Planting in October through mid-February, however, resulted in improved diameter and height growth. Planting is best when the temperature is 35°-50° F, relative humidity is 74%, and windspeed is 10 m.p.h. avoiding sunny, windy days.
Eric reminded that lower density spacing makes the trees less susceptible to the southern pine beetles as well as avoiding a precommercial thinning. The first thinning is delayed until there is a minimal pulpwood component.