13 



t 



Poplar, Birch and Soft Maples seem to develop these shoots more freely and vigor- 

 ously than other species. 



In many woodlots, especially in the southern part of the Province, a large 

 percentage of the growth is of this nature rather than of seedling origin. Fig. 8 

 shows at least two generations of coppice. An old Chestnut stump aibout three feet in 

 diameter has, growing from its base, a coppice Chestnut about twenty-six inches 

 in diameter, and from this is growing a six-incii Chestnut which is the third 

 generation. The twenty-six inch tree developed from the root-system of the old 

 stump, l)ut in time produced a root system of its own which is now helping to sup- 

 port the six-inch tree. In this case the coppice is developing before the parent 

 tree has been cut. In Fig. 7 the coppice probably developed after cutting of the 

 parent tree. 



Fig. 7. — One year old Chestnut Coppice. 



To obtain good tree growth of coppice after cutting certain considerations 

 must bcigiven attention. 



Age of Parent Tree. Coppice from overmature trees will not produce strong 

 growth, ^s the old roat system has lost its vigor. Coppice loses its vigor of growth 

 by following the system too far, the tliird and fourth generations becoming weak 

 and decrepit— -In many woodlots dwarf(Ml and stunted growth exists from the 

 above causes. .; : 



Time of Ciiifing. Coppice is best produced by cutting in late winter or early 

 sj)ring. Late fall or early winter cutting often allows frost and moisture to loosen 

 the bark. The coppice shoots originate 'benieath this outer 'bark, and if it is de-- 

 stroj'ed there is small clinnoc of shoots developing. 



HeigliJ of Sfinii/i. — In culling with a view of obtaining coppice, the stump- 

 should be cut as closelv to tlic uToiiinl as i)ossil)lo. It is dc^ii-ablo to obtain result- 



