Trees with straight and unobtrusive trunks can significantly improve the yield and value of timber, providing greater economic returns for tree growers. To achieve this, there are several effective and straightforward techniques that can be applied to ensure the wood is straight, full, and free of knots.
First, selecting high-quality seedlings is crucial. When planting, choose trees that are 2 to 3 years old, tall, with a well-formed shape, strong top buds, and sturdy growth potential. It's best to go for larger, healthier seedlings to give them a better start in life.
Second, proper pruning is essential. Once the trees have been planted and established, begin pruning from the second year onward, starting from the bottom and moving upward according to the tree’s natural growth pattern. Remove branches that compete for space, as well as diseased or dead ones. If thick branches need trimming, first shorten them, then remove them completely once the trunk has thickened in the following year. Always make smooth cuts, ensuring the wound doesn't exceed 1/4 the width of the trunk at that point. Maintain a balanced ratio between the tree’s height and its trunk length—ideally, the height should not exceed one-third of the total tree height. After pruning, disinfect the wounds to prevent disease. Common methods include applying lime sulfur (5–10° Baumé), a paste made from cow dung, hydrated lime, ash, and sand, or using a 1–2% copper sulfate solution.
Third, straighten bent trunks. If the trunk is curved due to external factors, make 3 to 5 vertical cuts along the inside of the bend, reaching the xylem, to encourage healing and promote straight growth. If the trunk isn’t straight after one season, continue the process until it reaches the desired shape.
Fourth, treat trunk injuries promptly. Any damage to the trunk must be addressed quickly to prevent further harm and speed up recovery. For minor bark damage caused by mechanical injury, carefully lift the bark, clean the area, and reattach it to the trunk using plastic wrap or wet straw, securing it with a rope. If the bark hasn’t fully fallen off, press it back into place and tie it securely. Most wounds can heal within a week or a month, depending on the severity. For larger wounds, trim the edges, sterilize with Bordeaux mixture or lime sulfur, and apply a small amount of alpha-naphthylacetate ointment to aid healing.
Fifth, fill tree cavities properly. Remove any rotten wood inside the cavity, disinfect with a suitable chemical, and then fill the hole with a mixture of water, cement, and gravel to restore the tree’s structural integrity.
By following these practices, you can greatly enhance the quality and value of your timber, making your tree planting efforts more profitable and sustainable.
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