Overview: Pine Stands without a Significant Longleaf Component
There are many essentially pure stands of pines of species other than longleaf on former longleaf sites. Some of these are the result of earlier removal of longleaf and re-colonization by loblolly, shortleaf, or, occasionally, slash pine. Many more are the result of deliberate replacement of longleaf by planting either loblolly or slash pine. These sites must be reforested to longleaf by planting as there is no available seed source. The task of restoring the groundcover is directly linked to the previous history of fire in the stand.
Pine Stands without Longleaf in the Overstory and History of Fire
The task of restoration is made much easier in this situation. At least two growing season fires within two years of each other should be performed prior to harvesting the overstory pines. The next steps include the decision to harvest either overstory or components of the overstory. The harvest can take either the form of a clear-cut or a thinning to create "gaps" in which longleaf pine seedlings are planted.