Abstract

"In 1994, Forestal Mininco started a research project to assess the effects of different establishment methods on the seasonal growth and yield of radiata pine (Pinus radiata, D. Don) plantations. Many survey trials were set up during that year using coastal metamorphic, volcanic ""trumao"", sandy, and granitic soils. Based on the above, this article focuses on the edafoclimatic characteristics of volcanic ""trumao"" soils. With this general consideration, three approaches were defined -a Basic or Traditional Method (MB), an Improved Method (MM), and an Optimum Method (MO)- to improve the plantation establishment, initial plant growth development, and to assess the plantation yield corresponding to each method. In each experiment, tree measurements were recorded over a six-year period. Associated climatic and economic information was also obtained. After analyzing the results, it was concluded that these establishment methods have no effect on the seasonal growth of radiata pine. However, in ""trumao"" soil conditions, the Productivity Index (DAC