Shrinkage variation in Japanese larch (Larix kaempferi, [Lamb.]Carr.) progenies/provenances trials in Eastern Canada

ABSTRACT

Twelve-year-old Japanese larch (Larix kaempferi [Lamb.]Carr.) trees of 20 different progenies and/or provenances were sampled at one site in the Mauricie region of Quebec. Two standard samples were obtained at breast height and closer to the bark from each tree. Partial and total radial, tangential, and volumetric shrinkages, and tangential/radial (T/R) shrinkage ratios were assessed. All of these variables were significantly affected by the progeny/provenance. Drying defects are one of the main reasons for downgrading larch lumber; thus, T/R shrinkage ratio was considered for the selection of progenies/provenances for lumber production purposes. Lowest partial and total T/R shrinkage ratios were obtained with progenies/provenances 8964, 8904, 8962, 8957, 8907, 8927, 7283, and 7795. Among them, lowest partial and total tangential, radial, and volumetric shrinkages were found in progenies/provenances 8964, 8962, and 8907 as well. Other physico-chemical (mechanical properties, density, extractive content) and silvicultural (growth rate) attributes should also be taken into consideration for an adequate selection of progenies/provenances according to the specific final utilization.

KEYWORDS:

• Japanese larch
• shrinkage
• progenies/provenance selection

Acknowledgements

The authors thank Ante Stipanicic and Michel Beaudoin for their valuable assistance. The authors also thank Hristo Iliev for his contribution during the laboratory experiments.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

Funding for this project was provided by the Ministère des Forêts, de la Faune et des Parcs du Québec.