Silviculture

Hybrid larch is classed as a pioneer species and a strong light demander. As a deciduous species it has recognised soil improvement capabilities providing improved phosphorus status in soils where it is grown. Hybrid larch as with European and Japanese larch is also regarded as a good nurse species. As a component of some mixed species plantations, it has the potential to significantly enhance their profitability, by virtue of its rapid early growth and superior form.

Hybrid larch as with European larch should be planted at 2 x 2 m (2,500 plants/ha). It also flushes early, and planting should be completed before flushing starts. Water stress over a dry spring, planting on very free draining slopes or on sites where the soil remains cold after flushing can lead to losses. It is very shade intolerant, so good weeding during establishment is essential to control competing vegetation. Nursery plants tend to be more expensive than European or Japanese larch due to the often-restricted availability of seed. Plantings of hybrid larch are best suited to sites where timber production is the principal objective.

Hybrid larch tends to self-prune – unlike most other conifers – if managed in well stocked stand. Pruning may be necessary in more open plantings or mixed stands if a quality sawlog is required. As a strong light demander, thinning should start before the stand reaches 10 m height and should be heavy to provide adequate room for individual trees. Delayed thinning results in a serious reduction in crown density which does not recover easily. Subsequent thinning’s should be conducted at 3–5-year intervals. On very good sites hybrid larch can achieve 14 Yield class (less elsewhere) on a rotation length of 50-60 years. On the same sites other conifer species can be more productive.

A pioneer species with rapid early height growth and good stem form while the light shade makes it suitable for growing in mixture with broadleaves or other conifers.