Forest reproductive material
The research is developing new and improved ways of planting new forests. Breeding and regeneration are the first steps in a chain of measures that lays the foundation for profitable and sustainable use of the forest.
The objective is to provide Swedish forestry with vigorous seeds and plants of high quality that will improve productivity and wood quality, but that are also prepared for future climatic and environmental changes. Other aims are to improve efficiency and increase the value of forest production by developing new methods, technologies and planning systems.
Current research
Evalutation of the Swedish Tree Breeding programme
The Swedish tree breeding programme has been evaluated by researchers from Skogforsk and SLU.
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New plant types tested
Skogforsk is constantly testing and evaluating new plant types. In 2009 we compiled experiences from cultivation and planting of mini-plants. We are also looking closely at the potential for planting smaller plants in southern Sweden.
Contact: Karl-Anders Högberg, phone: +46418-47 13 07
Breeding for vigorous and optimal trees
Skogforsk is continuing to breed pine, spruce and birch for tomorrow’s forestry. The objectives are faster growth, high quality and resistance to diseases and climate change, while preserving the genetic diversity.
Contact: Bengt Andersson, phone: +4690-203 33 58 (North of Sweden) and Bo Karlsson, phone: +46418-47 13 05 (South of Sweden)
New tree species
Skogforsk is also developing and testing species such as lodge pole pine, larch, red oak, hybrids, Douglas fir, Sitka spruce.
Contact: Bo Karlsson, phone +46418-47 13 05 and Bengt Andersson, phone +4690-203 33 58 (lodge pole pine in the north of Sweden)
How good are the hybrid species?
There is growing interest in hybrid species. New studies will give information about biomass production and vitality.
Contact: Lars Rytter, phone: +46418-47 13 04
Greater blooming gives more seeds for orchards
Skogforsk is intensifying management of the clone bank in order to produce more seeds.
Contact: Curt Almqvist, phone: +4618-18 85 87
NovelTree – for genetically-improved forest products
Resistant forest ecosystems that will survive climate change, an increased range of high-value forest products, and tree species with improved tolerance against pests and diseases. These are challenges facing today’s forest genetic scientists and tree breeders.
Contact: Bengt Andersson, phone: +4690-203 33 58
Treebreedex – European network for tree breeding
This EU project will develop a European web-based network for tree breeding and forest genetics.
Contact: Gunnar Jansson, phone: +4618-18 85 56