Selection of trees and shrubs species for frost prone and degraded highland of Legambo Woreda, South Wollo, Amahra region, Ethiopia

Abstract

High altitude a forestation in South Wollo has been difficult due to lack of adaptable tree species and partly due to stressful environmental conditions. This study is intended to select the best-performing tree species for frost prone highlands of south Wollo. Erica arborea, Hagenia abyssinica, Eucalyptus globulus, Hypericum revolutum, Populus species, Chamaecytisus palmensis, and Juniperus procera were evaluated in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Five seedlings from each species were planted with one-meter spacing in a plot. Spacing between plots and blocks was 1.5 m and 2 m, respectively. Data collected include plant height, root collar diameter, and number of branches, which were measured at an interval of six-months period, and for three years. One-way Analysis of Variance results showed the presence of significant variation in measured parameters. Eucalyptus globulus has demonstrated the highest result in seedling height and root collar diameter at the end of three years. Populus species, Chamaecytisus palmensis, and Juniperus procera showed the second, third, and the fourth better growth performance.