A. Study of Compression Wood in Scots Pine (Pinus silvestris L.)

The incidence of compression wood was studied in 24–40-year-old Scots pine plantations. It was found that compression wood distribution in trees depended on type of stem curvature and was associated with their attempts to correct stem inclination. Compression wood volume percentage was not closely related to extent of stem curvature but was highly correlated with compression wood percentage in the tree at breast height or 10 feet. There was significantly less compression wood near the butt than at higher levels. In stands examined, compression wood formed 20–40 per cent, of the standing volume. The prevailing wind appeared largely responsible for the initial development of stem inclination and consequent compression wood formation. Provision of shelter during establishment should reduce compression wood development in second rotation crops.