Herbicides can be a safe, economical alternative to manual or mechanical methods, since herbicides may be broadcast by air or ground. They can also be used to treat individual stems by tree injection, stump treatment or basal spraying. Several herbicides are labeled for site preparation. Labeled herbicides applied according to label directions can be used with a minimum of concern regarding harm to humans, wildlife, soil, air or water. Discing with heavy discs may be all that is required to prepare a site for natural seeding or direct seeding.
Fire is used alone or in combination with the methods above.
Although burning is simple and cheap, it should be done only by trained personnel under carefully controlled conditions. The North Carolina Division of Forest Resources and several private contractors provide site preparation burning services. Bedding, scalping, drainage or water control may be needed in certain situations. Raised beds on excessively wet areas improve drainage, make planting easier and increase seedling survival and growth. A scalper may be used to remove grass competition and clear small trash from the planting area.