One of the most effective means of improving existing hardwood and mixed stands can be accomplished by selected removal of undesirable tree stems showing one or more of the following characteristics: poor form, decreased productivity, high risk postential for future mortality or decay, unwanted species, or stem damage. 

 

There are many harvesting regimes that will enhance hardwood stands other than a clearcut.  Selective cutting involves pre-marking individual trees or groups to remove, while leaving other areas undisturbed.  The intensity at which this is done depends highly on tree quality and density.  Landowners should almost always avoid diameter-limit cutting. Usually this is a form of high-grading, a process which removes all trees above a certain diameter.  All this accomplishes is that it removes the best trees and leaves the slower, weaker trees to remain.  It's always a good idea to mark the trees you want left or those you want cut before you sell your timber. Patch-clearcuts are a more intensive treatment and are good options when regenerating oak species.