The Influence of Pinus pinaster Stand Density on the Spread of Gleichenia polypodioides

Abstract

Differences in initial espacement and subsequent thinning treatment in a P. pinaster spacing experiment in the Tsitsikamma Forest Region resulted in variation in Gleichenia cover of between 0,5 and 97,7 % at a stand age of 44 years. This suggests that the Gleichenia infestation in plantations could be caused by the existing planting espacement and/or thinning regime. Revised sylviculture could be considered as a protection measure in areas where Gleichenia infestation occurs.