Silviculture technologies in stand tending

The stand-tending phase comprises management activities that facilitate the optimal growth and health of the trees and optimise the value of the timber at the end of the rotation. This stage includes activities such as weeding after planting, forest protection, pruning, and thinning. The timing of standing-tending activities is essential to derive the highest value from invested resources and prepare stands for future harvesting. This chapter deals with various stand-tending technologies available to execute tending operations. Some activities have a range of technologies, ranging from basic manual techniques to highly mechanised and advanced methods. However, some activities are still predominantly manual, and more advanced methods have not yet been developed. This information is vital for various forestry stakeholders to be aware of the methods and technology options available for stand-tending activities in forestry.