Comparison of establishment techniques for radiata pine on poorly drained, phosphorus-deficient soils.  D. W. Flinn and B. C. Aeberli.  March 1982.  14 pp. (unpubl.)

SUMMARY

Results are discussed of a field study at Neerim East aimed at comparing three methods of site preparation (disc ploughing, deep ripping and a combination of the two) in the presence and absence of localised applications of superphosphate for establishment of Pinus radiata D. Don (radiata pine), on phosphorus-deficient soils subject to seasonal waterlogging. Four sites with contrasting native vegetation were examined.

On the basis of early volume growth and mortality, disc ploughing was found to be as effective as either ripping on the contour to a depth of 60 cm or a combination of ripping and ploughing. Ploughing was also cheaper, and better reduced competition from woody weeds.

Characteristics of the dominant native vegetation proved to be poor indicators of site potential for P. radiata growth following cultivation and fertiliser application.

A localised application of superphosphate at about 170 g tree^-1 was found to be essential for satisfactory establishment of P. radiata over the range of sites examined. However, foliar concentrations of phosphorus had generally declined to deficient levels within four years of planting, irrespective of the rate of superphosphate applied. Other studies suggest that a second application of superphosphate, broadcast at 700 kg ha^-1, is required at age three or four years for such sites. Together, these two applications should be sufficient to ensure satisfactory growth for the remainder of the rotation.

Also published:

Flinn, D.W. and Aeberli, B.C. (1982)  Establishment techniques for radiata pine nurseries with contrasting soils.  Aust. For. 45: 164-73.