Variation in pine growth response to site preparation methods in the Lower Coastal Plain of the southeastern US

This study evaluated the long-term growth responses of pine plantations in the Lower Coastal Plain of Florida to different site preparation (SP) treatments, including variations in bedding timing (early or late), frequency (single or double), and herbicide use (banded or broadcast pre-plant application), with or without first-year post-plant herbaceous weed control (HWC). The results showed that growth responses varied by location, primarily influenced by the effectiveness of vegetation control, especially in suppressing woody shrubs. Pre-plant herbicide treatments consistently improved growth, with broadcast applications often performing as well or better than the banded treatments. Although bedding timing and frequency influenced growth at some sites, their effects were inconsistent. Superior growth was observed in treatments combining early bedding with pre-plant herbicide, even without HWC, highlighting the critical role of effective vegetation management in enhancing the productivity of pine plantations.