Evaluation of site preparation and different planting stocks as related to first-year survival and growth of oaks planted for afforestation of retired agricultural area

Acorns, bare-root, container, and potted seedlings of four oak species were planted near Port Barre, Louisiana to evaluate growth and survival following four mechanical/chemical site preparation combinations. Acorns did not germinate. Bare-root seedlings exhibited lower survival and greater diameter growth than containerized or potted seedlings. Containerized seedlings exhibited lower survival than potted seedlings and less growth than bare-root or potted seedlings. Potted seedlings exhibited greater survival than bare-root or containerized seedlings.;A post-emergent herbicide treatment was used for grass control, but released broadleaf competition. Increased broadleaf competition in areas that received chemical treatments resulted in less survival compared to areas that received subsoiling only. Seedlings in areas that received chemical treatments exhibited slightly greater growth, but less survival. Better survival in areas that received only subsoiling would promote the use of subsoiling as the only form of site preparation if adequate competition control is lacking.