Because of the risk and possible delay involved when relying on natural regeneration, you may want to consider planting seedlings of desirable species such as oak, ash and walnut. Planting enables you to supplement natural regeneration, to plant genetically superior stock when it is available, and to plant the species you want. Seedlings may be planted before or immediately following a clearcut, group selection or shelterwood harvest. However, planting under a shelterwood is preferred because it gives planted trees time to become well established before they are exposed to the surge of competition that develops after clearcutting.