Resin pockets: their occurance and formation in New Zealand forests

Authors: D.J. Crown
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 1973, Issue N.Z.J.For. 18(2) 1973, pp 233-251, Aug 1973
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

Abstract: Results of a nation-wide questionnaire survey of resin pocket incidence show that this defect occurs in many conifer species throughout New Zealand and confirm that the frequency of occurrence is exceptionally high on the Canterbury Plains. A small number of radiata pine logs from the Canterbury area was investigated for possible relationships between individual tree characteristics and resin pocket numbers, but no simple correlations were found with stem diameter, tree height, crown class or wood density. Evidence is presented which indicates that water stress, rather than gale force winds, may be the primary factor influencing pocket formation.