Managing the Eroded Slopy Lands for Higher Biomass Production of <I>Eucalyptus grandis</I>

Abstract

An initial survey of the soils under Eucalyplus grandis plantation at Minmutti, in Nagarampara range of Kottayam forest Division revealed that the stunted growth and mortality of the Eucalyptus grandia was due to deficiency of N,P. and Ca, on severely eroded soils. Having skeletal compacted soil profile. Studies involving four levels each of N (0, 30, 60 and 90 kg/ha), and P₂0₅ (0, 1 0, 20 and 30 kg/ha) as urea and superphosphate, respectively in factorial combinations revealed that both, nitrogen and phosphorus.. Enhanced biomass production and stem volume significantly during two year growth period. Influence of nitrogen was of prime significance. The P and N x P interaction was also significant. Additional Index Nitrogen, Pholphorus, Eucalyptus grandis, Eroded lands.