What is the primary goal of plantation weed control?

The primary goal of plantation weed control is to ensure the survival and growth of tree seedlings. In plantation forestry, young trees need ample resources—such as light, water, and nutrients—to establish themselves and thrive. Weeds can compete aggressively for these resources, often outgrowing or overshadowing young seedlings. By controlling weeds, foresters create an optimal environment that allows seedlings to access the necessary nutrients and light they require during their critical early growth stages. This helps in successfully establishing the plantation, ultimately leading to a healthier and more productive forest.

Enhancing biodiversity, improving soil fertility, and attracting wildlife can be important objectives in broader forest management strategies, but they are secondary in the context of immediate weed control focused on seedlings' survival and growth.