Wood density of clones of Eucalyptus urophylla x Eucalyptus grandis in different conditions of growth

Abstract

Variations in the growth site of trees have influence on the internal structure of the trunk. Considering this fact, this study investigated influence of the characteristics of the growth site on wood specific gravity of two clones of Eucalyptus urophyllax Eucalyptus grandis, approximately six years old, growing in different altitudes and topographies. Furthemore, two methods of sampling of the wood specific gravity were studied, for comparison purpose. Results showed that wood specific gravity underwent variations between growth conditions andtrends in wood specific gravity variations, compared between growth conditions, were the same regardless of the clone. With relation to sampling method, the wedge was more appropriate for determination of wood specific gravity, in order to extrapolate the disc density. These results provide tools to forestry companies about consolidation of genetic material and its behavior in different growth conditions, to attend wood quality requirements.