2020 Volume 102 Issue 3 Pages 202-206
We planted large Sugi cuttings (160 cm tall on average) and characterized the breaking damage to the main stem and lateral branches caused by deer. Damage occurred primarily on the main stem in the first and second years, and on the lateral branches in the fourth year. While none of the trees died due to stem breakage during the study period, an increase in tree height was delayed in individuals with damaged stems. The average height of the site of damage was approximately 120 cm. The diameter at the position of damage ranged from 6.5 to 15.8 mm, and the shoot length above the damaged stem ranged from 17 to 85 cm. Slope gradient did not significantly affect the height of stem damage. The findings suggest that stems and branches thicker than 16 mm in diameter are unlikely to suffer due to the damage inflicted by deer. Nonetheless, if a deer fence is installed, maintenance of the fence should be undertaken regularly, as deer that get through the fence can cause extensive damage to young plantations.
