Establishment and Early Release of Underplanted Japanese Larch With Soil-Applied Fenuron

Japanese larch (Larix leptolepis, Sieb. and Zucc.) has been used for afforestation on a wide variety of sites and climatic regions throughout the Northeastern United States. This species was first planted in Pennsylvania in 1909 (2). The majority of early larch plantings was confined to abandoned farmlands, although in recent years Japanese larch has been one of the fastest growing species when planted on strip mine spoil areas (4). Because of its high yield of wood per acre, acceptable pulping characteristics, and suitability for genetic improvement, this species will undoubtedly be planted more extensively in the future. In spite of their desirable characteristics, the exotic larches have developed a reputation for being temperamental and difficult to establish (6). However, in a species comparison test made in New York State, Japanese larch, after seven (growing seasons, showed greater resistance to frost heaving, better growth and site adaptability than red pine (Pinus resinosa Ait.), jack pine (Pinus banksiana Lamb.), white spruce (Picea glauca (Moench) Voss, white cedar (Thuja occidentalis L.), and European larch (Larix decidua Mill.). Japanese larch will tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, though it appears to grow best on a deep, well-drained, sandy loam having a pH of approximately 5.0 (2).

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Author(s): R. D. Shipman

Publication: Tree Planters' Notes - Volume 20, Number 1 (1969)

Volume: 20

Number: 1