Establishing a new cohort
Planting success depends on site preparation, seedling quality, planting technique, and post-planting weed control. Failure in any step produces expensive re-planting or long-term brush competition.
Site preparation
- Mechanical scarification — exposes mineral soil for root contact.
- Pile and burn — removes slash; watch erosion on slopes.
- Chemical site prep — controls competing vegetation before planting.
Planting standards
Seedlings should be planted at correct depth — root collar at soil line, not buried too deep. Roots must not J-hook or bend upward. Firm soil around roots eliminates air pockets that dry fine roots.
First-year survival
Monitor survival counts at year one. Replace or fill gaps if below 85–90% depending on contract specifications. Release from competing vegetation in year 2–3 is often critical in plantation forestry.