Trends in shortleaf pine tree improvement

Tree improvement programs of shortleaf pine (Pinus echinata Mill.) have developed over the past 25 years to the point that virtually all demand for planting stock is met with genetically improved trees. About 22,600 acres of improved stock are planted each year. Although shortleaf has the largest geographic range of any southern pine, it is not being promoted in reforestation programs as much as alternate species, presumably because of slower growth. The largest shortleaf reforestation and tree improvement programs are on the National Forests with the bulk of the program in Arkansas on the Ouachita and Ozark National Forests. Within a few years National Forests will have second generation orchards established.