STOCK AND PASTURE MANAGEMENT FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF RADIATA PINE IN FARMLAND

Abstract

The success of grazing within 3 years of planting radiata pine seedlings in pasture is affected by early tree growth rate, class of livestock used, type of pasture available, season, and topography. This early grazing should be with sheep, restricted to autumn and winter in the first 2 years after planting, and must always be associated with cautious stock management. Trials in the central North Island have shown that, during the 3 years after planting, 20, 40, and 80%, respectively, of the full grazing potential can be achieved, with adequate development of the tree crop. Inter-row cropping of hay or silage has been demonstrated with a production loss (in area) of about 8% during the first 3 years rifler planting.