A tree removal practice that reduces tree density and competition between trees in a stand. Thinning concentrates growth on fewer, high-quality trees, provides periodic income, and generally enhances tree vigor. Heavy thinning can benefit wildlife through the increased growth of ground vegetation. Types of thinning are thinning from above (removing mainly the tallest or “dominant” and “co-dominant” trees), thinning from below (removing trees from the understory), row thinnings (removing selected rows in plantations), and combinations of these types.
THINNING
