Studies on the physical characteristics, properties and productivity potential of exotic and indigenous bamboos in rainfed subtropical environment

Abstract

Age and maturity status of bamboo culm determines the strength of bamboos. The older bamboo culms and lower part of it has better strength than the younger and outer culms. From the studies carried out it is also quite evident that the productivity of the bamboo based agroforestry systems in western Himalayas can be increased many times if the exotic bamboos are introduced in the system. Bambusa bambos could be the best option with highest volume per ha. Similarly, the Dendrocalamus asper could be very good for fodder purposes with better palatability and small thick bamboo sticks for small use. Among local bamboos Bambusa nutans and Dendrocalamus hamiltonii could be better option. Bambusa tulda and Bambusa balcooa can be other best options for introduction in the farm with higher culm number per culm and biomass after Bambusa bambos.