Production of genetically improved silver birch plantations in southern and central Sweden

Investing in planting genetically improved silver birch ( Roth) Swedish plantations requires understanding how stands will develop over their entire rotation. Previous studies have indicated relatively low production of compared to Norway spruce (L.) Karst.) and Scots pine L.). This could result from using unrepresentative basic data, collected unimproved, naturally-regenerated spp.) growing on inventory plots often located coniferous stands. The objective this study was a basal area development function evaluate full rotation period. We used data 52 experiments including planted different genetic breeding levels southern central Sweden. experimental were established fertile forest sites former agricultural lands, managed with numbers thinnings removal regimes. model best describing total stand dynamic equation derived the Korf base model. analysis realized gain trial for showed good stability early calculated relative differences between tested genotypes time. Thus, difference might be cautious as representation gain. On average Sweden, produce 6–10.5 m ha year, while agriculture land productivity higher, especially material coming improvement program. performed provided first step toward predicting effects volume profitability birch. However, more are needed set up material.Betula pendulaPicea abiesPinus sylvestrisBetula3–1–1