A comparison of thinning programmes in European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) based on permanent plots in Southern Sweden

Abstract: The present study investigated 7 thinning experiments in beech which were established in 1971. The purpose was to compare two thinning programmes with different thinning intervals. The programmes (A and B) were designed according to yield tables by Carbonnier (1971). The experimental plots have been measured regularly in 5 to 10 years intervals. More so, wood quality, the occurrence of epicormic branches, scars and other quality traits were investigated. In this study, data from five experiments in Tönnersjöheden experimental forest were used and analysed alongside data from regular inventories. A field study was made to collect data on epicormic branches, scars, tree vitality, stem damage and other variables that have a negative impact on wood quality. The results indicate that there are no major differences between the two thinning programmes A and B in volume production and diameter development as well as in the quality traits.