Performance of height-classified Eucalyptus camaldulensis seedlings after one year in the field

Eucalyptus camaldulensis seedlings of 16–25, 26–35, 36–45 and 46–55cm height classes were used to examine the effect of planting stock quality on field performance. Survival, height and diameter (10cm above ground) were assessed 6 and 12 months after planting out. Significant height differences (P 0.05) existed between the 16–25 and 46–55cm height classes at 6 months age. There were no significant (P 0.05) differences in all these parameters at 12 months after planting out throughout the four height classes. It is concluded that the height classification approach for E. camaldulensis seedlings has very little value if the seedlings are in the 16–55cm height range. Until other nursery stock grading approaches are studied, 16–25cm seedling height class is as effective as the taller ones and would therefore be more economical for dry zone afforestation in Malawi.