Coastal and inland provenance trials in Pinus sylvestris L.

Stands of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) along the south-eastern coast of Sweden differ from inland stands at the same latitude as regards frequency of trees with broad crowns and crooked stems. In order to investigate the nature and extent of the differences, a provenance trial was established with material of coastal and inland origin. The experimental design involved testings at two sites (coastal and inland), at two spacings at each site and with two methods of establishment (sowing and planting). Differences between provenances were established as regards germination, survival, occurrence of prolepsis and some branching characteristics. Inland pines were less well adapted to coastal conditions than were coastal pines to inland environment. The stem form of the inland trees was superior to that of the coastal ones. A strong effect of differences in spacing was demonstrated as well as an influence of different methods of establishment. A strong relationship between the various growth characteristics within the individual trees was manifested. The branch angle was negatively correlated with branch size. The variation in stem form was independent of the variation in other traits. The conclusion was drawn that genetical differences between the parent stands existed as regards crown form and especially stem straightness