Effects of Pruning on Timber Quality of Pinus koraiensis Grown in Korea

This study was performed to obtain the basic data for high quality timber production and efficient utilization by investigating the effect of pruning on timber quality of domestic plantation-grown Korean pine (Pinus koraiensis Sieb. et Zucc.). The results were summarized as follows:Dead knots (unsound knots) in the pruned logs occurred more at upper parts when compared with in non-pruned ones. The numbers of knots on surface in heavily pruned trees were less than those in non-pruned trees, but there was no significant difference in moderately pruned trees. The required period to reveal clear timber surface without defects after pruning increased proportionally with the increase of knot diameter. The yield of clear lumber production increased by about 10% after 14 years from moderate pruning. The quality grade of log improved with more pruning practices. Knots appeared the most important factor in lowering the log grades.