EVALUATION OF MOST PRODUCTIVE BIRCH IN THE WESTERN PART OF NORTH – EASTERN LITHUANIA

Abstract

Birch is one of the main tree species that are grown in Lithuania. It is characterised by rapid and intensive development. Do to that it is important to analyse this species reasons for growth and maturing perspectives.

The aim of this study was to evaluate most productive birch stands across Lithuania and estimate the reasons of productivity. Objects of the research were laid out across Rokiškis, Panevežys, Ukmergės regional divisions. In each lot there was estimated indicators of dendrometric (hight, diameter, Kraft's class) and quality (curvature ant its character, the thickness of branches, tilt). It was determinated that trees hight is approximately 3 m bigger in Forest Management project than in the research. Most productive birch stand in Lithuania is in Skapiškio 147 forest district (403 m³/ha).

In birch stands most of the trees, 76,4%, are in good condition. Main reason for deterioration is overshadowing.