Stocking Diagrams for Silvicultural Guideline in Korean Pines and Japanese Larch

Abstract

Appropriate management of stand density is necessary to avoid wasted growing space and overcrowding-induced self-thinning and therefore to optimize profitability. We developed a Gingrich-style stocking chart for Korean red pine (Pinus densiflora), Korean white pine (P. koraiensis), and Japanese larch (Larix kaempferi) in Korea. Datasets for even-aged stands were categorized into two censored datasets via relative density based on species-specific stand density indices to assign adequate plots for tree allometry. Censored plot data for maximum density on full stocking were used to develop A-level stocking based on mean individual tree area. In censored plot data for minimum density on full stocking, individual trees represented open-grown trees, and a crown competition factor of 100 was proposed as B-level stocking. Based on parameters estimated from allometry, stocking diagrams comprising quadratic mean diameter, number of trees, and basal area were correctly expressed. A-level stocking at the same quadratic mean diameter revealed that Korean white pine had the most trees and largest basal area, while Japanese larch had the fewest trees and smallest basal area. In contrast, B-level stocking disclosed that Japanese larch had the most trees and basal area, whereas Korean white pine had the fewest trees and smallest basal area. The stocking diagrams suggest that silvicultural treatments for these species should be species-specific.