The straight and uniform growth of tree trunks can significantly enhance the yield and value of timber, ultimately boosting the economic returns for those who plant trees. Here are several effective techniques to ensure that the wood is straight, full, and free from knots.
First, select high-quality seedlings. When planting, choose trees that are 2 to 3 years old, with a well-formed shape, strong top buds, and a sturdy trunk. Opt for larger and healthier seedlings to give them a better chance of growing straight and strong.
Second, implement proper pruning practices. Once the trees have been planted and established, start pruning from the second year onwards. Begin at the base and work your way up, removing branches that compete for space, as well as diseased or dead ones. If thick branches need to be removed, first make a short cut and then remove them completely once the trunk has grown thicker in the following year. Always make clean cuts and keep the wound size no larger than one-quarter of the trunk's circumference at that point. Maintain a balanced height-to-diameter ratio, ensuring the tree’s height does not exceed one-third of its total height. After pruning, disinfect the wounds to prevent disease. Common methods include applying lime sulfur (5-10 degrees Baumé), a paste made from cow dung, hydrated lime, ash, and sand, or a 1-2% copper sulfate solution.
Third, straighten bent trunks. If a tree’s trunk is curved due to external factors, use a knife to make 3-5 vertical cuts along the affected area, reaching the xylem. This encourages the tree to heal and grow straight over time. If the desired result isn’t achieved in one season, continue the process until the trunk becomes straight.
Fourth, treat trunk injuries promptly. Any damage to the trunk should be addressed immediately to prevent further harm and promote healing. For minor bark damage caused by mechanical injury, carefully lift the detached bark, clean it, and reattach it to the trunk using plastic film or wet straw, securing it tightly with a rope. In most cases, this will allow the tree to heal within a month. If the bark hasn’t fully detached, press it back into place and secure it with a rope, which should help it heal within a week. For larger wounds, carefully trim the edges and apply a disinfectant such as Bordeaux mixture or lime sulfur. To speed up healing, you can also apply a small amount of alpha-naphthylacetate ointment (0.01%-0.1%).
Fifth, fill tree cavities properly. Remove all decayed wood from the hole, disinfect the area with a suitable chemical, and then fill the cavity with a mixture of water, cement, and gravel to restore the trunk’s strength and stability.
By following these practical and scientifically supported techniques, tree growers can significantly improve the quality of their timber, leading to greater profitability and sustainability in forestry.
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