Why improve broadleaved trees
In 2005, the United Kingdom harvested 54,000 cubic metres of hardwood timber from its forests. Due to the demand for good quality hardwoods, over ten times as much hardwood was imported in the same period; 761,000 cubic metres of timber (excluding paper and chip product) at a cost of £254 million 1.
Promoting quality timber production
With increasing pressure on consumers not to purchase tropical hardwoods, and strict control on their importation, it is important that the UK is able to provide an inexpensive, home-grown alternative. All too often, stock of unknown origin and potential is planted, which frequently leads to disappointing timber yields. If valuable timber is sought as an end product, then trees of good genetic stock combined with exemplary silviculture will maximise a forest’s full potential. In light of climate change, and the predicted effect on native tree populations, tree breeding has become increasingly relevant.
The advantages of promoting quality timber production are that:
commercial viability is improved, which can underpin amenity and biodiversity values
- better silviculture is encouraged
- marketability is improved
- a more diverse range of timber products is produced
- confidence in planting stock encourages further tree planting
Source: Forestry Commission Timber Statistics 2005
Open Day - 7 July 2012
Ever wondered what is behind the fence at Neptune Wood? Join us for a day to explore our research woodland at Paradise Wood, and learn about our research with broadleaved trees.
Meet at Neptune car park at 2pm. Free event. Dogs welcome on leads. Not suitable for children.
Tree breeding | Broadleaved trees | Species research