Growth and self-thinning in two young Scots pine stands planted at different initial densities

Abstract

Two neighbouring young stands of Scots pine ( Pinus sylvestris L.) with different initial densities were analysed, allowing the study of competition on an individual tree basis. The development of growth and self-thinning of trees of different competitive status was examined over a period of time, from planting until the time for late pre-commercial thinning. Differentiation into different tree classes took place relatively early. About 6–7 years after planting, trees that were classified at year 16 as dominant, were significantly larger in stem volume than trees that were classed as suppressed. The conclusion was that events that take place early in the stand development have great importance for later stand structure.