Scaling Growth Relationships from Seedling Plots Using Similarity Analysis

Abstract

Abstract Data from a small-scale loblolly pine seedling experiment established at 1/16 scale to an operational study were used to develop height and diameter development models appropriate for either scale. An additional model was constructed that analytically relates stand development between the two scales and links the size of trees grown at small scale to operational scale counterparts. Results suggest that important stand characteristics associated with forest productivity develop similarly at the two scales. The models presented here can be used to evaluate the effects of stand density on tree growth at either scale and make inferences to operational scales from small-scale seedling studies. FOR. SCI. 49(2):188–195.