Biomass and Nutrient Distribution in Young Teak (<I>Tectona grandis</I> Linn. F) Plantations in Tarai Region of Uttar Pradesh

Abstract

Estimates of component wise dry matter production and nutrient distribution of 10,20 and 30 years old plantations of Teak (Tectona grandis Linn. F) have been discussed. Linear rtlgresssion analysis was carried out. Among the prediction variables tried, DBH alone was found to give reasonably precise values of biomass and can be used for prediction purposes. The total standing biomass ofthese stands increases with increasing age and diameter from 74.5 t/ha (10 years) to 164.1 t/ha (30 years). Maximum amount ofN, P and Mg was accumulated in hole while higher accumulation of Ca was observed in bark and roots. Harvesting of only utilisable biomass (148 t/ha) at the age of 30 years would result in the removal of247, 41, 170, 632 and 198 kg/ha ofN, P, K, Ca and Mgrespectively. Defoliating and debarking at the site is suggested to reduce the drain of nutrients from the soil especially Ca contents.