American Hardwood Forests Renew Themselves Naturally

In hardwood forests, the trees reproduce naturally and prolifically. This regeneration is irrepressible: it is not necessary to intervene and plant hardwood trees after a harvest.

In the cycle of natural self-replenishment, young hardwood trees sprout from roots, stumps and seeds, assuring the continuing diversity of species and tree ages in the forest. The single-tree selection method of harvesting reduces competition and gives this new growth more sunlight, water and nutrients.

Hardwood forest renewal happens at its own, natural pace. Foresters work with the timeline that Nature dictates: sustained supply and ongoing replenishment are the result.

FOREST STRATIFICATION

1. Emergent - A tree that grows above the general level of the forest canopy. These trees are exposed to the strongest sun and winds.
2. Canopy - This level forms the roof of the forest with crowns of the dominant trees and other vegetation.
3. Understory - This level receives little light. Many of these trees tolerate shade and remain at this level; others grow and replace older, fallen trees.
4. Forest Floor - This lowest level is made up of tree seedlings, dead leaves and needles, grasses, ferns, flowers, fungi and decaying plants and logs.

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