Broadleaf thinning time on horizon

Over 90 participants attended a recent national demonstration of broadleaf thinning in Cordal, Castleisland, Co Kerry.

This event, organised and co-ordinated by Teagasc in conjunction with the Forest Service, took forest owners through essential steps involved in broadleaf thinning.

Timing is critical in broadleaf management. The first thinning in broadleaf forests (which is called tending) readies the forest for future management operations. Participants learned how tending removes less favoured stems that are competing with potential crop trees. This tending operation, when properly controlled and carried out at the appropriate time for the crop, is an essential element in the development of a quality and productive forest.