Whether you’re managing your land for timber revenue or building a legacy for future generations, one thing is sure: your harvest results begin with the seedlings you choose today.
As Reforestation Advisors, one of the most common questions we hear is, “What kind of trees should I plant?” And the answer usually starts with genetics. Your seedling’s genetic potential plays a direct role in how fast your trees grow, how straight they stand, and how valuable they’ll be at harvest.
So, what’s the difference in genetics, and what does that mean for your bottom line?
AG-68, planted March 2021 in Bamberg County, SC, enters its fifth growing season at an impressive 19.5 feet. This OP-Elite is demonstrating exceptional performance.
A Smart Start for Steady Returns
Open-Pollinated (OP) Loblolly Pine seedlings are a solid starting point. These seedlings originate from a known, high-performing mother tree that was pollinated naturally. While they’re reliable and widely used, there is a broad range in their performance. Not all “elite” seedlings are created equal. Make sure you compare actual performance data, not just names.
With quality OP seedlings, landowners can expect:
• Up to 25% more revenue than older 2nd Gen seedlings
• First thinning at 13–15 years
• Early yield of 40–50 tons per acre
• 20–50% of trees suitable for Sawtimber at final harvest
Elite Genetics for High-Yield Timberland
Looking to maximize the return on your land investment? ArborGen’s Mass Control Pollinated (MCP®) seedlings are bred from the top 1% of more than 8,000 tested families. Through precision cross-pollination, these trees are genetically selected to produce faster-growing, straighter, higher-value timber.
With MCP® Loblolly Pine, you can expect:
• 50% more revenue than 2nd Gen seedlings
• First thinning at 11–13 years
• 30% more volume than OP seedlings, with better solid wood potential
• 60–80% of trees graded as Sawtimber at final harvest
• Increased growth, straighter stems, and improved disease resistance
MCP® 2.0, planted in a demonstration plot in Columbia, MS, stands at 30 feet tall at just 6 years old, showcasing the strength of this next-generation genetics.
What’s Your Goal?
Whether you’re aiming for Pulpwood, Chip-n-Saw, Sawtimber, or utility Poles, your harvest is shaped by the decisions you make now. Investing in the right genetics pays off in the long run.
Your local Reforestation Advisor can help you choose seedlings that match your land, market, and financial goals because planting better trees means growing better results.
