Assessment of the Regeneration Potential of Red Oaks and Ash on Minor Bottoms of Mississippi

Abstract

Abstract Plots were established to monitor the success of advance regeneration for red oaks and ash on eight high quality sites on minor bottoms in Mississippi. Data were collected pre- and post-harvest, and annually for 3 yr following harvest. Red oak and ash stems were initially categorized by height class, or by diameter class for those stems at least 1 in. in diameter at breast height. Survival and competitive position were monitored to provide estimates of the probability of producing at least one free-to-grow stem 3 growing seasons following stand harvest. Regardless of species, the competitive advantage of larger seedlings and stump sprouts over smaller seedlings (less than 1 ft tall) was clear. Less than 10% of the smaller seedlings were free-to-grow after 3 growing seasons, whereas 26% to 71% of the larger seedlings and stump sprouts were judged free-to-grow after the same amount of time. Results were used to revise an existing regeneration assessment system. A field tally sheet was developed to aid in the application of the revised system. South. J. Appl: For. 23(3): 133-138.