Abstract
Incense-cedar ( Calocedrus decurrens (Torr.) Florin) is a drought-resistant conifer species native to the western United States that is host to few lethal pests and pathogens. Quantifying its survival and growth after planting is important for defining its potential place within future silvicultural prescriptions. Our objectives are to understand the impact of (1) spacing and herbivore protectors on seedling survival, (2) spacing on growing space occupancy after 19 years, and (3) spacing on individual tree and stand characteristics. The use of herbivory protection had a positive influence on seedling survival (96% survival with protection; 92% survival without protection). After 19 years, including drought conditions, 89% of planting spots were occupied by a live tree. Mean live crown ratios occurred across a narrow range, from 89.4 to 97.8, indicating a lack of differentiation at this phase of stand development. Wider spacing treatments resulted in the expected trade-off of larger individual tree sizes but lower stand-level volume. Because of persistent live crowns, thinning and pruning are potential strategies not only to reduce fire risk but also to improve timber quality. Our results also support the contention that incense-cedar is a species well-adapted to the anticipated future climate.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
