Developing a Tree Planting Project

Establishment Steps Determine area to plant Determine appropriate species to plant Site prepare area & plant trees After planting maintenance

Planting Projects Hardwood or pine trees can be planted. Due to cost, pine is preferred

What type of Pine to Plant Loblolly Pine Shortleaf Pine White Pine Virginia Pine

Site Prep Methods Bush Hogging Scalping Spot herbicide Broadcast herbicide

Bush-hog

Control the Sod by Scalping

Control the Sod by Using a Herbicide An approved herbicide can be sprayed on both sides of the planted tree.

Control the Sod by Using a Herbicide The entire planting area could be sprayed with an approved herbicide at an approved rate.

Site Preparation for Hardwoods Tree shelters, root mats and nets are a must. Spraying an approved herbicide around the root mat is an added benefit.

Planting Machine planting – pine only Hand Planting – pine or hardwood

Pine can be planted by machine Planting rate is 300 to 500 trees per acre Most common is 454 trees per acre or a spacing of 8ft. x 12ft.

Pine can be planted by hand Planting rate is 300 to 500 trees per acre.

Hardwoods can be planted by hand Usually plant 110 trees per acre Spacing is usually ~ 20 ft. x 20 ft. More can be planted

After Planting Maintenance Keep livestock out of planted area. May need to bush-hog in order to minimize vole damage. Annually check the condition of the tree shelters.

Must maintain practice Keep livestock out of planted area. May need to bush-hog in order to minimize vole damage.

Must maintain practice May need to bush-hog in order to minimize vole damage or unwanted vegetation. Annually check the condition of the tree shelters.

Open Field in Pine

Questions On site visit can be done by Nelson J. Shaw VA Dept. of Forestry Albemarle Office 900 Natural Resources Drive, Suite 800 Charlottesville, VA