Natural regeneration status of Betula utilis in Sangla valley of Indian Himalayas

Abstract

The present investigation entitled, “Natural regeneration status of Betula utilis in Sangla valley of Indian Himalayas.”. The study area was divided into three horizontal (lower, middle and upper) elevations. To carry out this study five quadrates of 10 x 100m were laid down for the study of trees and shrubs, whereas, twenty quadrates of 2 x 2m were layed per main plot to study the regeneration parameters. The recruits, unestablished and established plants of Betula utilis and associated species decreased with the increase in elevation. Similarly, the regeneration success decreased with increase in elevation. The maximum total weighted average height, total established index, total stocking index and total establishment stocking per cent were recorded at lower elevation. Simple correlation reveal that regeneration of B. utilis had a positive and significant correlation with soil organic carbon, pH, organic matter layer and solar influx, soil moisture and soil nutrients.