A timber operation is a lucrative investment if you have reliable, healthy tree growth on your property. However, before harvesting the trees, proper forest management will help ensure the timber is healthy and strong. When your next timber appraisal shows high-quality wood, you can expect higher profits and yields in the future. Here are several strategies to help the trees on your property.

How Can You Produce Healthier Timber?

1. Use Controlled Burns

Fallen, rotting trees take up valuable growth space on the ground. Additionally, they may harbor diseases and fungi that can spread to healthy neighbors, quickly affecting your profit when you want to harvest the lumber. One of the best ways to eliminate this issue is by using controlled burns. This low-cost solution removes brush, dead trees, and other decaying matter, creating healthier soil. Always work with forest management professionals to do this so that you don't violate local laws and regulations.

2. Remove Competing Trees

When you want to harvest timber for a specific purpose, prioritizing the best trees will help increase your profit. However, in a forest, low-quality trees may compete with their neighbors by growing into and over them. Encroaching branches may restrict growth and keep sunlight and moisture from reaching the desired trees. To prevent this, remove any growth that is undesirable, and monitor younger trees that are developing so that you can trim them before they interfere with mature plants. Also, clear any stumps and existing root systems that may compete with new growth.

3. Prune Often

For the best timber, you should prune overgrown trees to remove damage areas that are taking up valuable nutrients. The best way to identify the areas that need pruning is to have a forest management team inspect your property. They can locate and remove dead and damaged branches, allowing the tree to focus on healthy growth.

Pruning rates depend on the age and species of your trees, and improper technique can damage them. For example, cutting at the wrong angle can create open wounds where fungi and insects can enter. Professional arborists will prevent this issue and ensure you don’t thin the crowns too early.

If you need forest management advice for your timber operation, contact Neeley Forestry Service. These professionals have over 140 years of combined forestry experience and proudly serve residents and businesses throughout Camden, AR. They provide timber appraisals and consulting and can point you to land for sale if you want to expand the operation. Call (870) 836-5981 to schedule a consultation, and visit the website to learn more about their services.