Effect of Nursery Shading Intensity, Potting Mixture and Pot Size on the Performance of Pericopsis angolensis (Baker) Meeuwen Seedlings
Abstract:
Nursery practices are integral to the successful germination, growth, and survival of tree species. However, limited attention has been given to the establishment, management, and performance of seedlings of many indigenous tree species in nursery settings. This study investigated the performance of Pericopsis angolensis seedlings under varying nursery conditions, including shading intensities (SI) (0%, 50%, and 75%), pot sizes (PS) (10 cm, 15 cm, and 20 cm), and potting mixtures (PM) (PM0 [sand: cow manure: forest topsoil (1:2:4)], PM1 [sand: cow manure: forest topsoil (1:2:3)], PM2 [sand: cow manure: forest topsoil (1:4:3)], PM3 [forest topsoil only], and PM4 [PM0 with an additional 5 gm of NPK]). A Completely Randomized Block Design (CRBD) with a 3 x 3 x 3 factorial arrangement was employed. The results revealed that SI had a significant influence on various growth parameters, including root-collar diameter (RCD), shoot height (SH), and leaf count (LC). Specifically, the highest SI (75%) was found to be the primary factor influencing these parameters. Moreover, the study demonstrated that both PS and PM composition significantly influenced leaf development. Larger PSs were associated with increased LC. Notably, seedling biomass was highly affected by SI and PS, with larger pots resulting in greater seedling productivity. It is suggested that shade circumstances be carefully m anaged, with a focus on maintaining 50% SI for the best results, to maximize the growth of Pericopsis angolensis seedlings. This can be accomplished by choosing planting areas with naturally occurring shade or by using shade structures. In addition, this study emphasizes the potential advantages of employing larger PSs composed of forest topsoil to increase seedling productivity, and thus biomass production.
