How long does it take to extract a tree core for dendrochronological analysis?
I'm going to do research in the tropics and am considering using tree cores for part of my analysis. However, for my planning:
How long does it take on average to extract a tree core of a tree with dbh ~50 cm? Trees will vary in wood density between 0.2 and 0.8.
The time includes labelling and storing in a bag, etc.
Tools: increment haglof borer. So I won't take a whole cross section, rather a small core of ~5 mm diameter that goes until the core.
And no picture because I need a more high quality image to be able to do my analysis.
Hello dendrologist friend! I worked with Ponderosa Pine during graduate school which I believe falls right in the middle of the density spectrum you indicated. I would say that conservatively budgeting about 15 minutes per sample could be safe. I am not sure what type of labelling you are planning, but one tip I will share is to carry pencil or chopstick cases to bring the core samples back from the field without getting broken. They can be transferred to individual bags once you safely return to base camp or the lab. Boring into the tree is the easier part and the time it takes will depend on your strength and ability to exert even pressure. It's best to stick to a firm and even pace rather than going as fast as you can and then slowing down closer to the center of the tree. Don't rush in pulling out the sample once you insert the extractor! It can be quite fragile. Will you have the opportunity to practice before you get to your field site? I highly recommend troubleshooting the amount of rosin needed for your increment borer before ending up in the field an not having the supplies. Wishing you the best of luck!
