Evaluation of the growth, shape and wind resistance of Douglas-fir plantations from seedlings and cuttings

Abstract

Three trials including Douglas fir cuttings and seedlings, located in Limousin, were observed just after the storm in December 1999. Damages are not more important on cuttings than seedlings from the same origin, as mean growth is equivalent for the two materials. Damage on trees increase with height growth in the same origin, but depends on clone, independently of the height growth. Generally height growth/dbh ratio on cuttings is higher than seedlings, as branching is poorer, but differences exist between origins. Results are discussed in the future of a storm tolerance better integrated in the future Douglas-fir varieties.