The Silvicultural Potential of Mixed Stands of Cherrybark Oak and American Sycamore: Spacing Is the Key

Abstract

The interaction of planted cherrybark oak (Quercus falcata var. pagodifolia Ell.) and American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis L.) was investigated on a flood plain of a minor stream in Arkansas. Oaks growing 20 ft or more from a sycamore attained a dominant position by 24 years, butwere still smaller in diameter and height than dominant sycamores. Rapid height and diameter growth of sycamore tends to retard oaks growing close to the sycamores. After 24 years, height and diameter differences between dominant oaks and sycamores are beginning to narrow, suggesting thatoaks may become more prominent. South. J. Appl. For. 11(3):158-161.