Did you Know – Pine Is Pruned Healthy? In part 2 of our look at SA pine plantations, Ian Burger touches on another process of growth management – pruning.
Pruned timber is used to manufacture high-value timber products such as plywood, wall cladding, furniture, shelving, and flooring. It is an essential part of plantation management.
With each prune, the lower branches of the trees are removed or sawn flush with the trunk and this is done to enhance and protect the tree which ensures benefits such as:
- A decrease in the number of knots and other defects in the pine
- An increase in the overall quality of the wood and therefore the market value of the trees
- New growth is precipitated by the removal of dead and dying branches and stubs, allowing room for new growth
- Detering pest infestation and disease
- The promotion of the tree’s natural shape.
Pruning happens when the trees are 5, 7 and 9 years old with the process carried out in spring (September to November). This happens several times until they reach a height of 6.2m.
If you have any questions or comments, email Ian at ian@somtim.co.za and he will be happy to answer them.
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