Horticultural Perspectives of Chilgoza Pine (<i>Pinus gerardiana</i>)

Abstract

Chilgoza pine is an important forestry species in Afghanistan used for timber and valuable nut production. It is utilized as forestry species without any horticultural manipulation. It provides a valuable source of income generation in rural areas of the southeastern region of Afghanistan. The objective of this study was to investigate various horticultural aspects of Chilgoza pine, a forestry and native species of the country, at pre-harvest, harvest, and post-harvest stages. Therefore, this study was carried out during 2019-2022, period to evaluate and highlight major horticultural issues from propagation o f the tree to marketing of nut, and to exert light on the domestication of the species to be used as a horticultural crop. Study was com prised of interviews, questionnaires, and direct observations from the field. Direct observations were performed to study yield components. Questionnaires were provided for some horticultural issues. Results showed that the main problem s were: propagation by seed that delayed early yields; lack of machinery for harvesting cones; absence of grading/sizing standards; lack of bargained power, and so on. Results, showed high variations in yield components (length, diameter and weight of cones and seeds) that provide best opportunity for selection to improve tree characters and yield components.