Loblolly Pine Planting Densities for Landowners in Areas with Poor Pulpwood Markets: Some Considerations

Abstract

Loblolly pine plantations in the southeastern United States contribute significantly to local and state timber supply and economies. Planting density greatly affects reforestation costs. It also influences when vegetation starts competing inter- (and intra)-specifically for limited site resources, and when thinnings occur. Planting 600 seedlings per acre essentially forces landowners into two thinnings prior to a final clearcut. However, many landowners are finding it difficult to conduct first thinnings; poor pulpwood markets and lack of interest from loggers have become common. Reforestation costs have increased due to inflation. Thus, given better seedlings, a need for reduced reforestation costs, and the inability of landowners to conduct pulpwood-dominated thinnings, most landowners should plant near 450 seedlings per acre. Here, landowners have more flexibility to adjust to market conditions. If pulpwood markets improve they can participate, but a “pulpwood” first thinning is not absolutely needed. Plus, entry into more valuable chip-n-saw and sawlog markets should occur sooner.