Fertilizing radata pine platations: predicting long-term effects

Authors: K. E. Lowell
Publication: New Zealand Journal of Forestry, Volume N.Z.J.For. 1988, Issue N.Z.J.For. 33(1) 1988, pp 20-22, May 1988
Publisher: New Zealand Institute of Forestry

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Abstract: Are the gains achieved by forest fertilization short-lived or sustained until harvest? Insight into this question is provided using a radiata pine growth model modified to include the growth and yield effect(s) of fertilizer in Golden Downs Forest to simulate a tending schedule for the production of structural sawlogs or for log export. Simulations showed that gains induced by fertilization remain present at age 25 and later, suggesting that fertilizer, rather than inducing a temporary growth spurt only, provides an advantage to a forest which is maintained over much of its life.

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