It is difficult to justify, solely in economic terms, hardwood plantations, except for black walnut. Other hardwoods, like oak, grow slowly. Black walnut can be harvested in a minimum of 35 to 40 years. Depending on the species, other hardwoods may be harvested in 65 to 80 years. A mix of species often provides the most benefits.
Tree plantations do better on former forest sites.
Recently cropped land requires more attention to determine suitability for certain species. Soil conservation plans list the appropriate tree species for various soil types. Indiana Division of Forestry's district foresters also have this information. Riparian zones are good sites for trees. Trees in them can help prevent soil erosion and water pollution from cropped-land runoffs.