On the basis of the field experience gained from the wide distribution
of Asiatic chestnut planting stock and the information thus far obtained
from the climatic test plots, a new method of establishing Asiatic
chestnut under forest conditions was initiated in the spring of 1946,
and is now being tried on a limited scale. It consists of underplanting,
with chestnut seedlings, a fully stocked stand of hardwoods ranging from
4 to 8 inches in diameter breast height in which the predominant species
are yellow poplar, northern red oak, white ash, and sugar maples. All
overstory growth 5 feet and over in height is then girdled. As the
girdled overstory trees die, they gradually yield the site to the
planted chestnuts in transition that does not greatly disturb the
ecological conditions, particularly of the forest floor. Rapid
disintegration of the mantle of leafmold is prevented by the partial
shading, which the dead or dying overstory, girdled trees cast. At the
same time, the partial shading hinders the encroachment of the sprout
hardwoods and the other plant invaders (which would normally become
established if the planted area had been clear cut) until the chestnuts
have become fully established. Not only does this system provide the
best site conditions conducive to the development of forest-tree form in
the Asiatic chestnuts, in limited areas, but also under establishment
conditions that require a minimum amount of maintenance.