Effect of post-harvest Cupressus lusitanica slash management on early growth of Pinus patula at Shume, Lushoto, Tanzania

Abstract

Sustainable forest productivity requires nutrient retention and protection of soil surface to ensure long-term soil fertility. This study was carried out in a second rotation forest plantation in Tanzania to provide insights on post-harvest slash and litter management practices for maintenance or increased productivity of subsequent rotations of forest crops. A randomized complete block design with four replications was used. Management treatments were: (a) control (litter left intact), (b) slash and litter removed, and (c) slash and litter burned. Periodic data were collected on root collar diameter (RCD), breast height diameter (DBH) and height. A final assessment was done at 36 months of age and the control treatment
was slightly superior compared to other treatments. This could be due to the enhanced physical and chemical properties of soils from slash and litter layers. Although assessment for longer period is required, the preliminary findings revealed that after clear felling and removal of merchantable wood and branches, the remaining slash and litter should be
retained on the site to induce better tree growth and maintain the nutrient capital.

Keywords: Pinus patula; Cupressus lusitanica; post-harvest; slash and litter management, site productivity.