Evaluation of Irrigation Practices for Growth,Biomass Production,and Nutrient Partitioning in Eucalyptus camaldulensis Plants in Indian Dry Zone |
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Authors: | Genda Singh |
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Institution: | 1. Division of Forest Ecology , Arid Forest Research Institute , Jodhpur, India gsingh@icfre.org singh_g_dr@yahoo.co.in |
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Abstract: | Supplemental irrigation is essential to increase tree productivity in dry areas to fulfill the local needs. One-year-old Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh plants were planted in July 1998 and supplemental irrigation was provided at 36.2 mm (I1), 26.5 mm (I2), 20.2 mm (I3), 18.1 mm (I4), and live saving (I5). Frequency and quantity of irrigation increased with an increase in irrigation level enhancing plant height, collar diameter, and biomass. These variables were highest at I1, but water use efficiency (WUE) was highest at I2. Dry biomass production increased from 1.18 kg plant?1 at I5 to 13.75 kg plant?1 at I1 at 24-month age. Biomass allocation to root increased from I1 to I5 but it was at the expense of leaf and branches. Height, collar diameter, dry biomass, and nutrient uptake indicated a non-linear increase with total quantity of water. Partitioning of N, Mg, Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn was greater to stem; and those of P, K, and Ca was greater to leaf than to the other parts. Conclusively, I3 and I4 levels supported establishment whereas I2 level was best for growth and productivity of E. camaldulensis plants in dry areas. The I1 level could be tried to increase water use and reduce salinity buildup. |
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Keywords: | dry biomass desert leaf growth nutrient uptake soil water content water use efficiency |
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