VEGETOS: Международный журнал исследований растений

Evaluating the Growth Performance of Melia volkensii in Kifu Forest, a Potential Timber Plantation Species in Uganda

Samuel Ongerep, Jecko Kidia, Mirium Masibo, Bernadette Kabonessa and Sarah Musimenta

Evaluating the Growth Performance of Melia volkensii in Kifu Forest, a Potential Timber Plantation Species in Uganda

Melia volkensii is a tree species endemic to the semi-arid areas of eastern Africa. Its natural range falls within areas which are characterized by dry bush land and wooded grassland, lying between 400 and 1600 metres above sea level. Recently, there has been increased awareness about its importance as a potential plantation species for timber production in Uganda. However, its potential is limited by its knowledge of growth potential in different agro ecological zones in Uganda. Therefore the determination of its growth performance and growth impact of disease and other growth depressing agents were monitored from the time of planting in the field in Kifu forest. This would address its potential for timber production in this area. The assessment was conducted at the age of 6 months after planting and the subsequent once would be conducted at intervals till the time of timber production. This report covers the first phase of frequent monitoring of the trials to assess survival and the initial growth performance of Melia volkensii (n = 50) and survival was 75.9%..