SITKA SPRUCE

• Most commonly planted tree in plantations in Ireland

• Favoured for fast growth rate, rotation between 35-45 years

• A non-native species, originates in the west coast of North America

• This species does not support a healthy ecosystem as the trees block out all light to the ground, suffocating any potential growth from native species.

• Suited for poorer quality upland soils due to shallow root system

• Lowest grant payment for this species