Plantations of <I>Casuarina equisetifolia</I> in the Midnapore District, West Bengal

Abstract

In the coastal area of the Midnapore district plantations of Casuarina equisetifolia are being raised since 1946. The spacing for planting is 2.44 m X 2.44 m (8' X 8' actually). The Nursery technique and Planting technique have been described in short. The cost of formation is Rs. 563/- per ha. Figures for growth in height and girth are given and a preliminary volume table is produced. It has been shown that a fully stocked plantation (1,600 trees/ha) has an M.A.I of a little over 11.0 m³/ha in 12 to 15 years. In this region, Casuarina does not coppice. The sale values of some lots auctioned in 1968-69 are given and a curve has been drawn showing the trend of price per tree depending on the girth of the tree. It is seen that by sale of standing trees in open auction, an 11-year old crop has earned a compound interest of 20% p.a.