The effects of growth dynamics on wood quality and utilisation of teak and limba : A review of international research

Alfeld

2005

S. 58-64

1 Abb., zahlr. Lit. Ang.

Artikel aus einer ZeitschriftUnselbständiges Werk

200122528

Wood quality should be considered as prominent concept as soon as valuable timber species are grown in plantation to supply wood market. This essay analyses the link existing between growth dynamics and wood quality on the one hand, and between wood quality and utilisation possibilities on the other hand. Two multipurpose and fast-grown tree species namely teak (Tectona grandis) and limba (Terminalia superba) were chosen for reference. Data from previous research were reviewed, classified and compared. The effects of humidity, exchangeable bases, spacing and tree age on wood density, heartwood and juvenile wood proportion as well as the occurrence of branches and knots are pointed out. Contradictory results have been found in the literature on the effects of growth factors and growth rate on some selected wood quality attributes such as wood density and heartwood proportion. The relationship between growth rate and wood density as well as heartwood proportion depends mainly on the species and the range of growth rates involved. A greater understanding of the relationship between growth dynamics, wood quality and utilisation could improve the management of the stand of high valuable timber species.