REPORT OF THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING HELD AT HARVEY,W.A., ON 10th DECEMBER, 1938, at 2.30 p.m.

This paper deals with some of the more important aspects of initial survival of slash pine (Pinus elliottii) in northern N.S.W. The results of establishment trials undertaken from. 1950 to 1954 are tabulated and discussed.

Extensive areas of P. elliottii have been established in northern N.S.W., near the coast between Coff's Harbour and Casino. The climate of this region is characterized by heavy, late summer rains, followed by winter and early spring drought. Soil moisture conditions are frequently critical for planting from June to September.

Little investigation of the problem of initial establishment was made prior to 1950. Early techniques involved drilling or prepitting. Careful pit planting was considered essential. Planting commenced after mid May and was interrupted frequently by dry weather. High losses were attributed to such factors as poor technique, bent roots, minor mechanical damage, and dry winds following planting.

Experimental results suggest that major establishment losses followed drying out of roots between lifting in the nursery and planting. Planting in April and May is preferable to late winter. The planting tool can be chosen on the basis of efficiency. Bent roots and deep planting have no effect on survival. Dominant seedlings of good form, 9 months old, are suitable, while oversized and malformed stock is to be avoided. Ground treatment before planting can be limited to the minimum necessary to remove grass competition.

Satisfactory establishment of open-root nursery stock of P. elliottii can be assured by the use of healthy stock lifted from saturated nursery soil, avoiding root exposure to sun or wind, and planting in moist soil so that all roots are completely covered.