Basic Density, Tracheid Length and Strength Properties of Juvenile and Mature Wood ofPinus patulaGrown in Tanzania

Abstract

SYNOPSIS More than 70% of Tanzanian plantations consist of conifers, 60% of which are Pinus patula plantations. Juvenile wood is one of the most important sources of variability. The proportion of juvenile wood in the stems of 27-year-old Pinus patula trees is considerable (weighted mean proportion of 49%). Juvenile wood has lower basic density, shorter tracheid length and inferior strength properties when compared to mature wood. Reporting average values does not give a true picture of differences existing between juvenile and mature wood, and this could lead to hazards.