Abstract
Seasonal height-growth patterns of young sugi (Cryptomeria japonica D. DON) in a snowy area of Toyama Prefecture was classified, and then the relationship between the growth pattern and basal bending caused by snow pressure was analyzed using a principal component analysis. In addition, we studied how the different silvicultural methods (tying with rope, inclined planting, and fertilization) used to reduce snow prostrating damage influenced the growth patterns and basal bending. Cluster analysis using the parameters of fitted RICHARDS curves (A, m, and k) led to two distinct height growth patterns. From the principal component analysis, it was found that as the basal-bending factor increased, A values decreased and m and k values increased. The analysis also showed that basal bending caused by snow pressure was the most important factor in reducing seasonal height growth on slopes. Of three silvicultural methods, it was found that tying with rope was the most effective method in respect to reducing basal bending, the height-growth increment, and early growth.
