Effect of soil types and age gradations on growth performance of Melia dubia under central dry zone of Karnataka

Abstract

Melia dubia is a fast growing deciduous tree species has popularity among the farmers and wood based industries to fulfill their growing demands. Several workers have studied on growth performance of different tree species with respect to site factors. A field study was conducted to know the effect of soil types and age gradation on growth of M. dubia in central dry zone of Karnataka during 2018-19. Established plantation in two soil types (Black and red soil) with 2, 4, 6 and 8 year age gradations were selected. Results revealed that, trees grown in black soil recorded maximum height at initial (7.41 m) and at the end of 12 months (8.19 m) as compared to red soil at initial (6.89 m) and after 12 months (7.65 m). Diameter at breast height (DBH) and crown diameter did not differ significantly with respect to different soil types. Among the age gradation, the maximum height (10.75 m and 10.90 m), dbh (0.218 and 0.224 m) and crown diameter (3.44 m and 4.38 m), basal area (30.981 and 32.815 m2 ha-1) and wood volume production (200.279 and 241.529 m3 ha-1) at initial and 12 months after start of experiment were recorded in 8 year plantation. Interaction of black soil and 8 year plantation recorded the maximum growth for all the growth parameters and may be recommended for harvest to get maximum returns.