| dc.description |
Macedonian pine is little known in Britain as a forest tree. Information comes mainly from its native range in the Balkan mountains, and from specimen trees and young forest plots in Britain. Following a visit in 1982 to Yugoslavia and Bulgaria, the author describes the site conditions and ecological relations of this species to Scots pine, Norway spruce and Silver fir. Early growth is characteristically slow, even on favourable sites, though it improves after 6–10 years and basal area increment may later exceed that of other pines. Growth and behaviour in British stands (mainly 20 years old, but a few older ones) is recorded. Stands of P. peuce are typically healthy and have excellent form. Insect and fungal damage is minimal. Early timber tests show specific gravity and strength are low, but the wood is very stable in drying and could have a use in joinery. Seed from selected stands will now be used for provenance testing. |
