Inclusion of the relative spacing index in the stand density management diagram

Abstract

This study aimed to structure the production in volume of Pinus taeda L. stands, through a management diagram, based on the following parameters: population density, dominant height, average diameter of basal area and relative spacing index. The data used came from 128 permanent plots, which were measured annually up to 18 years of age and conducted at full density, with spacing of 1.5x1.0 m and 1.5x2.0 m. At the same time, data from permanent plots subjected to different thinning intensities were used, and the density was regulated by the relative spacing index. The management diagram elaborated allowed the prognosis of the volume per hectare, the average diameter of the basal area and the availability of growth space, through the relative spacing index, from the variables dominant height and number of trees with precision and low error of estimate.

Keywords:
Thinning; Tolerance; Growth; Yield