Handling and planting methods influence field performance of red pine ten years after planting

In 1976 several plantings were established to compare the post-planting performance of 3 + 0 Red pine (Pinus resinosa Ait.) bare root stock planted by operational planting crews with those planted by research planting crews. Ten-year results show that field performance is directly influenced by the handling and planting methods employed by the two groups. Extra care in the handling and planting of bare root stock by research crews has led to improved survival, total height and diameter growth, resulting in a 27% overall increase in basal area. Key words: Red pine, handling and planting, plantation assessment, survival, total height, diameter and basal area