The introduction of lodgepole pine for wood production in Sweden - a review

The species-specific properties and the environmental requirements of lodge pole pine (LP) in both its native environment and as an exotic are reviewed in order to describe the large-scale introduction of this tree to Sweden, where the planted area has reached about 600,000 ha during a 25-year period . LP is estimated to produce 36% more wood than Scots pine (SP) and survive s better in the young stages, but is less stable against wind and snow load after being planted. Other species differences are discussed in terms of r esource acquisition, biomass allocation and losses, as well as the resistan ce to abiotic and biotic stresses. The experiences of silvicultural practic es are described, along with initial progress in tree breeding and seed orc hard programmes. The influence of tree and stand characteristics, e.g. rota tion age, stand density, species composition and stand distribution in the landscape, are discussed in order to analyze the ecological and environment al consequences of current and future management alternatives. (C) 2001 Els evier Science B.V. ALI rights reserved.