HARDWOODS ON PINE SITES - COMPETITION OR ANTAGONISTIC SYMBIOSIS

Early development of natural loblolly (Pinus taeda L.) and shortleaf pine (Pinus echinata Mill.) regeneration was monitored in two research studies and two research demonstrations between 1980 and 1989 in southern Arkansas. Site preparation and hardwood control incorporated the use of herbicides, mechanical treatments, or prescribed burning to facilitate the establishment of natural pine regeneration in accordance with two reproduction cutting methods - selection and shelterwood - on upland pine sites. All treatments resulted in satisfactory density and per cent stocking of pine regeneration within the first 3 years. Growth of that regeneration excelled in one research study and on one demonstration area, but was impaired on the other two areas, apparently by an overabundance of herbaceous vegetation. Where an understory and midstory hardwood cover preceded the pine reproduction cuts, herbaceous vegetation was nearly absent and subsequent growth of the pine regeneration was excellent.