Wood quality is defined as the suitability of wood for a particular end-use. Wood anatomy and tree growth are discussed in terms of macroscopic and microscopic features of a tree examined in cross section. End-use requirements are described in terms of lumber grading. The following wood quality attributes are introduced, defined and discussed in terms of their practical implications for wood processing and wood products: wood density, density variation, juvenile wood/mature wood distribution, proportion of heartwood/sapwood, fibre length, fibril angle, compression wood, knots, grain and extractives. The potential for influencing tree growth characteristics (eg. wood density, branch size) and wood quality (structural and appearance lumber grades) through stand stocking control is discussed. Foresters are asked to consider the wood quality implications of site specific silvicultural operations.