Growth Stress in Eucalyptus benthamii and its Relationship with Dendrometric Characteristics at Different Spacings

ABSTRACTThe aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of planting eucalyptus wood with respect to its dendrometric characteristics and longitudinal residual strain (LRS) of the wood, and the relationships between these variables. The material used was Eucalyptus benthamii at five years of age in 2×3, 3×3, 3×4 and 4×4 m spacing. The projection of the crown was determined by measuring eight spokes with variable angles, and maps of crown distribution and projection were prepared. Measurements of LRS were taken 1.30 m above the ground in the four cardinal directions in living trees, with the aid of strain meters (Growth Strain Gauge) by the CIRAD-Forêt method. There was great variability in the results of the growth variables and levels of growth stresses for different spacing. The lowest average values of LRS were observed in the south direction, and increased spacing did not significantly alter the LRS values. Correlations between LRS and growth variables were only found with maximum LRS values for each tree.