Balancing stand productivity and wood quality in chestnut coppices using chronosequence approach and productivity model

Abstract

Trade-offs between high stand productivity and good wood quality exist for chestnut coppices and related wood-based products. The main objective of this study was to determine the most suitable duration (in years) of cutting cycles to maximize stand productivity and preserve wood quality. To this aim, a growth model was developed to verify if wood quality of chestnut coppices at different stand ages varies when the rotation period is modified. Wood quality and stand productivity were analysed, using a chronosequence approach, in stands characterized by four cutting cycles (15, 25, 30, and 50 years). Results implied that the culmination of the mean annual increment occurs at 28 years, while the current annual increment culminates 10 years earlier. The MOEd values revealed a negative correlation with shoot age, however, a cutting cycle between 25 and 30 years might represent the best compromise for balancing stand productivity and wood quality.