Is anyone aware of research to back up claims that
planting small liners or seedlings of trees, eucalyptus in particular,
will give faster growth and better quality trees?
I have heard for years, and seen many instances where
small seedlings will outgrow and pass up 15 gallon and 24"
box stock. It seems most root damage occurs in the liner
so if you can plant liners directly in the ground - why not?
There will be less need for staking, etc. But is there a research study
to back it up?

Reply to post by Greg Applegate, on February 10, 2000 at 11:53:10:

Some other things to consider about small trees:
1) Will they be less or more visible and prone to vandalism?
2) Will they likely be of better natural form (unheaded) than taller trees?
3) Will they be less likely to have developed girdling roots,
or be easier to correct if they have?
4) Will they have more resistance to sunburn?

Reply to post by Greg Applegate, on February 10, 2000 at 11:53:10:

Watson, Gary, 1985. "Tree Size Affects Root Regeneration and Top Growth After Transplanting," Journal of Arboriculture. 11(2):37-40.

Watson, Gary and E.B. Himelick, 1997. Principles and Practice of Planting Trees and Shrubs. Champaign, IL: ISA. (See especially p. 159).

There is also some recent research by Dr. Ed Gilman et al, probably in JofA, showing that frequency of irrigation plays a measurable role... availability of water throughout the day being perhaps more important than the volume of water applied once a day or less frequently.