The Use of Cuttings in the Breeding and Afforestation of Pinus radiata

Authors: I.J. Thulin, T. Faulds
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 1968, Issue N.Z.J.For. 13(1) 1968, pp 66-77, May 1968
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

Abstract: Commercial afforestation by rooted cuttings of superior trees of Pinus radiata offers a rapid method of plantation improvement in tree quality. Biological hazards to clonal plantations are considered unlikely to be greater than to seedling plantations. Establishment of clonal plantations is technically and economically feasible as rooted cuttings can be mass-produced cheaply from trees up to 15 years of age. Cuttings from older trees can be rooted after pre-severance treatment similar to girdling in air-layering. A time-table is proposed for performance testing of clones in an 11-year programme.