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Growth variables assessment for young Tectona grandis Linn.f. plantation in Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Southeastern Nigeria

Author Affiliations

  • 1Onyekachi Chukwu, Department of Forestry and Wildlife, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka (NAU), Nigeria
  • 2Jacinta U. Ezenwenyi,Department of Forestry and Wildlife, NAU, Nigeria
  • 3Anabel A. Emebo, Department of Forestry and Wildlife, NAU, Nigeria

Res. J. Agriculture & Forestry Sci., Volume 8, Issue (4), Pages 1-8, October,8 (2020)

Abstract

Many tropical countries afforestation programmes emphasized on plantation establishment, neglecting subsequent silvicultural management decisions. This study aimed at assessing growth characteristics of the five years old Tectona grandis plantation in Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Southeastern Nigeriato provide precise information and inventory data for managing the plantation. Complete enumeration of T. grandis stands in the plantation was carried out. Stem diameters at base (Db), breast height (DBH), middle, and top, crown diameter (CD), total and merchantable heights (TH and MH) and crown projection area (CPA) were measured. The variables were used to estimate basal area (BA), total and merchantable volumes (TV and MV), crown ratio (CR) and tree slenderness coefficient (TSC). The data was subjected to descriptive and bivariate correlation statistics. A total of 295 trees were enumerated with mean DBH, CD, TH, MH, CPA, TV, MV, BA, TSC and CR of 8.9cm, 2.9cm, 10.6m, 1.9m, 7.656m2, 0.032m3, 0.006m3, 0.007m2, 125 and 0.86, respectively. DBH significantly correlated with CD (0.56), TH (0.62), MH (0.49), CPA (0.53), TV (0.85), MV (0.75), BA (0.97) and CR (0.42). The study concluded that the size of the T. grand is stands were smaller than the typical harvestable size for timber. Hence, recommended restricted logging, whereas ensuring appropriate silvicultural practices in the plantation to avoid unnecessary competition for nutrient and sunlight.

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