A Pilot Trial of Soil Sterilisation in a Forest Nursery

Authors: I.J. Thulin, G.M. Will, C. Bassett
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 1954, Issue N.Z.J.For. 7(5) 1958, pp 88-93, Dec 1958
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

Abstract: A soil sterilisation trial with chloropicrin and formalin on a light textured pumice soil resulted in a significant reduction in seedling mortality and an increase in growth. Plant analyses indicate an improvement in the availability of nutrients, particularly potash. In this respect the chloropicrin was the more effective. Species used in the trial were Pinus radiata, P. nigra, Pseudotsuga taxifolia, Larix decidua and Picea sitchensis.