Planting & Regeneration

Natural regeneration can be an attractive method of reforestation because of the little to no cost required to re-establish timber on the cut-over land. However, cash flows can be less regular and less predictable than plantation style reforestation resulting in reduced growth and production. 

Plantation style reforestation of a cut-0ver site can yield a much higher internal rate of return over the life of a typical rotation. The factors that determine timber stand quality are established during regeneration and there is better control of these factors when using plantations than when using natural regeneration methods. 

For instance, there is control over seedling species, quality, genetics, planting density, and spacing. Returns on investment are generally higher and start earlier in the life of the rotation as well. The best rate of return is made possible by ensuring that quality seedlings are planted at an optimal spacing that is suitable for the site as well as suitable for the overall goals of the stand.

Planting quality seedlings that have genetically improved form factors along with a resistance to diseases will allow a stand the best chance to develop into higher value end products. Planting density and spacing also affect the growth and health of the stand. By controlling the spacing and planting density the stand can be appropriately managed for the best mid-rotation and final returns. Finally, plantation style management results in greater wood production as well as greater predictability in growth and yield.