Forestry establishment involves important seasonal timing. Winter time is the period for establishing seedlings in the southern regions of Australia.
Effective site preparation pre-winter is crucial and includes clearing of previous vegetation, soil testing, and possibly modifying soil pH or structure to enhance seedling survival. Proper preparation helps in reducing competition and improving conditions for young trees.
Planting techniques require methods such as manual (using spades or potti-putki) or in site specific areas, machine planting of seedlings. The choice depends on the site conditions and the objectives of the forestry project.
Systemic Insecticide injecting is used to manage pest insects that threaten tree health. This method is targeted and helps in minimising the impact on non-target species and the environment. For Rencon Air & Land’s Silviculture Field crews, this is a major undertaking normally injecting by hand annually between 4,000-6,000ha depending on client requirements.
Systemic Insecticide injection is delivered near the root-ball of the seedling. This method ensures that the insecticide is distributed throughout the seedling systemically, providing effective control of leaf feeding insects such as spring beetles, weevils and other harmful insects.
Pioneering products in Australia such as Shield by Sumitomo is a popular choice by forestry companies. The active ingredient in Shield is clothianidin. It is taken up by insects sucking or chewing on the leaf, which then causes the insect to die.
As winter draws to a close, forestry professionals are gearing up for a critical period of preparation. August may still be chilly, but it’s a prime time to lay the groundwork for successful forestry establishment and pest insect management strategies. Although August is not typically the peak period for insect activity, preparing and scheduling insecticide treatments for when insects become active in spring can be crucial in preventing infestations.
Looking ahead, the efforts put into forestry establishment and pest management now will significantly influence the health and productivity of Victoria’s and southern most regions of Australia’s forests in the future. By planning and preparing during these cooler months, forestry professionals can ensure a thriving green landscape for years to come.
As we move from winter into spring, remember that every step taken today paves the way for a sustainable and prosperous forestry future. Here’s to a season of growth and green innovation!