An analysis of phenotypic selection in natural stands of northern red oak ( Quercus rubra L.)

Comparison of growth and stem quality parameters of 19-year-old progeny from superior and comparison trees indicates that rigorous phenotypic selection of trees in natural stands may not be an efficient method of parent tree selection for Quercus rubra L. Total tree height, dbh, number of branches in the butt log, fork height, and number of mainstem crooks of progeny from 11 phenotypic select trees and their co-occurring comparison trees were analyzed. Pooled data from 4 test sites indicated no difference in dbh or number of mainstem crooks among select and comparison families. However, comparison families were significantly (p≤0.05) taller, had significantly less branches in the butt log, and higher fork heights than select families. Similar patterns of variation were also found within test sites. The large degree of within-stand variation in growth and stem quality traits among families indicates that selecting several phenotypically above-average candidate trees may be more effective than rigorously selecting a smaller number of phenotypically superior Q. rubra trees.