• Journal of Korean Society of Forest Science
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• v.108 no.4
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• pp.600-609
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• 2019

This study was conducted to highlight the necessity for a stand density control management plan in consideration of the shape ratio of Pinus densiflora and Larix kaempferi in Korea. A total of 2,112 Pinus densiflora samples and 2,030 Larix kaempferi samples were cut, and their diameter at breast height (DBH), height, and clear length were measured for regional shape ratio (height/DBH) comparison and analysis.The shape ratio of Pinus densiflora was 72.3% in the Gangwon district, 64.0% in the central district, and 70.8% on average, indicating a higher percentage of Pinus densiflora in Gangwon than in the central area. Regionally, Yeongju had the highest percentage at 78.4%, with Yeongwol indicating 77.5%. Measured by diameter, results showed a presence of 90.4% for small diameter trees (6-16 cm), 71.7% for medium diameter trees (18-28 cm), and 56.1% for large diameter trees (30 cm). As density increased, the shape ratio of height to tree trunk diameter also increased; below 70% indicated a more stable trunk, while a result above 80% indicated trunks prone to wind hazards and snowstorms, and, therefore, the need for density control in partial areas. The overall shape ratio of Larix kaempferi was 90.6%. Pyeongchang indicated a 108.5% ratio, Yeongju 105.4%, and Danyang 100.5%, respectively.According to diameter class, small diameter trees showed 104.9% occurrence, medium diameter trees 92.7%, and large diameter trees 73.4%. The shape ratio of Larix kaempferi was higher than 80% overall, indicating vulnerability to wind hazards and snowstorms. Therefore, appropriate stand density management is required.