New Zealand's diverse climate ranges from subtropical in the North Island to temperate and even alpine in the South Island. This climatic diversity presents both challenges and opportunities for forestry management. In colder climates, careful selection of tree species is crucial to ensure successful and sustainable forestry practices. In this article, we'll delve into some of the best forestry species for colder climates in New Zealand, considering their adaptability, growth rates, timber quality, and environmental benefits.
Pinus Radiata or the 'King of Forestry' in New Zealand is a clear stand-out species for most climates in NZ. It grows well in a diverse range of climates, is relatively fast growing and has good timber quality. However in this article we are looking at 4 more lesser-known species that could be a better choice for your land, especially in colder climates or in sub-alpine areas of NZ.
- Pinus radiata x attenuata
The hybrid between radiata pine and attenuata brings together the best traits of both parent species. This hybrid combines the fast growth of radiata pine with the adaptability and resilience of attenuata. The resulting tree is well-suited for colder climates, offering good timber quality and enhanced resistance to environmental stressors. Its genetic diversity can also contribute to disease resistance and overall forest health. Attenuata is often classed as 'Sterile', meaning it doesn't self-seed or reproduce. However this has never been proven as it is a new variety of pine which takes 10-12yrs to produce cones. While attenuata has a reduced risk of spreading because of its breeding, it is good to note that its sterile status has not yet been proven. Researchers are hoping this pine could help in reducing wilding pines in the future. - Eucalyptus nitens
Eucalyptus nitens is a species that originates from southeastern Australia, and it has proven to be well-adapted to certain areas of New Zealand's colder regions. It can tolerate frost and cold temperatures to -14°C *. Nitens is a fast growing species that can reach up to 80cm diameter over two decades. It will survive in heavy (wet but not waterlogged) soils but requires good fertility for fast growth. Also good to note, is that careful management is necessary to prevent them from becoming invasive in New Zealand. - Sequoia sempervirens (Coastal Redwood)
The coastal redwood, is as it names suggests, a great option for near the coast but they are also able to handle conditions well, up to 450m in elevation. This redwood is cold tolerant (-10*c), however not as much as the giant redwood below. The tree thrives in cool, moist coastal climates with consistently high moisture levels. It is native to California and grows naturally, narrow and conical up to 100m after 1000's of years. Great for erosion control on lower slopes as it roots system is extensive. - Sequoia Gigantium (Giant Redwoods)
This redwood maybe the best forestry tree to grow at high altitudes in the cool climate of southern New Zealand. It can grow anywhere between 450 and 850m in elevation, maybe higher. The Gigantium does not like humidity and that is why southern south island conditions are favourable to its growth. These magnificent trees can grow to over 3m in diameter within 120years and they can continue to grow for 1000's of years. Giant redwoods are reasonably slow to establish however they do increase growth rates after 10 years old, exceeding 1m in height per year. Site of full sunlight are best, however they are tolerant of partial shade. This is also another reason why planting them at a good distance from other trees is a wise idea, that way they can grow faster.
Selecting the right
tree species is pivotal for successful forestry operations in colder climates
of New Zealand. Each species mentioned in this article brings its own set of
advantages, whether it's rapid growth, high-quality timber, or ecological contributions.
As the climate continues to evolve, these carefully chosen species, including
hybrids and new higher-quality clones will play a vital role in sustaining our
forestry industry and more importantly, our people and communities that rely on
forestry for their livelihoods and recreation.