Biomass growth characteristics of 13-year-old Pinus densiflora S. et Z. in a post-fire plantation on different contour conditions in Samcheuk, Korea

Abstract

We used preliminary data to estimate the growth volume of artificially reforested Pinus densiflora in a post-fire area on three different contour conditions. We compared the growth of P. densiflora on a south-facing slope (Ssth), north-facing slope (Snth) and ridge area (Ridge), using 7 trees selected from each stand aspect. The tree height, diameter and growth volume were measured and the dry weight of each plant part were compared and analyzed. The results revealed that the total dry weight was highest on Ssth (5992.3 g), followed by Snth (4833.2 g) and lowest on Ridge (3160.1 g). The height growth was highest on Snth (285.8 cm), followed by Ssth (274.5 cm) and lowest on Ridge (211.5 cm). The diameter growth was greatest on Ssth (7.37 cm), followed by Snth (7.10 cm) and lowest on Ridge (5.72 cm). The volume growth was highest on Ssth (4257.7 cm3), followed by Snth (3750.7 cm3) and lowest on Ridge (2093.7 cm3). Therefore, we should consider and include the concept of slope orientation together with differences in habitat environments in afforestation projects when creating artificial forests with P. densiflora. These study results can serve as important preliminary data for future establishment of artificial forest of P. densiflora in a post-fire plantation.