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Models were developed for predicting the dry matter content of single Norway spruce [Picea abies (L.) Karst.] stems from non-destructive field measurement data such as tree height, diameter and age. The material under study comprised 1612 stem discs originating from 235 trees grown at nine locations in Denmark and southern Sweden. In total, 153 trees (1054 discs) originating from a thinning experiment in southern Denmark were used for establishing the models, which were later validated on independent material. Results of the validation were that the 95% confidence interval for single stem density was ±9 to ±16% when based on average ring width at breast height, but within ±7% when based on wood samples taken at breast height. The density models were combined with standard volume models in order to predict dry matter content. Validation on independent material showed that in general the dry matter content of single stems can be estimated with less than 10% error (RMSE).

The variation in the basic‐density level of 45 stems of Sitka spruce from two Danish sites has been examined. It is shown that the basic‐density level, i.e. the basic density as a function of ring width, within the juvenile wood decreases with (1) increasing distance from the pith and (2) increasing height in the stem (same ring number from pith provided). Furthermore, the basic‐density level seems to decrease with increasing stand quality, which may affect the pattern of variation in basic‐density level if the stand quality class varies with age. The basic density of the juvenile wood is markedly higher in Sitka spruce than in Norway spruce, whereby the risk of stem cracks probably is reduced.