Which regeneration approach involves leaving a few trees to provide seed for new growth?

• A. Clearcutting
• B. Seed-tree method
• C. Shelterwood method
• D. Thinning/release cutting

Answer: (B)

Regeneration after harvest relies on a seed source to start new growth. The seed-tree method intentionally leaves a small number of healthy, seed-producing trees in the stand while most others are harvested. Those remaining trees provide the seeds needed to naturally regenerate the area, helping establish a new stand with local genetic material. After seedlings are established, the seed trees are typically removed in a subsequent entry. This approach directly uses a few trees as the seed source, which is why it’s the best fit for the scenario. Other methods either remove all trees, focus on thinning without relying on a seed source, or use a larger group of trees to provide shelter and regeneration over a longer period.