Economics of Mass Clonal Multiplication of Forest Trees

Per capita forest area of 0.8 ha is getting reduced because of deforestation and increase in world population. Consumption of fuelwood, industrial roundwood and wood products is projected to increase substantially. The challenge for meeting increased demands must be met through sustainable and appropriate forest development strategies. Intensive forest management practices and plantations of fast growing species will play increasingly important role. Vegetative propagation supported with long term breeding strategies ensure maximum immediate and long term advantages. Major benefits of clonal option have been highlighted. Factors influencing economic gains have been discussed. Specific examples of substantial gains in productivity and improvement of desirable qualities of plantation wood have been given in respect of Eucalyptus in Congo, Brazil and India. Successful examples of clonal reforestation with many other tropical hardwood and temperate species have been given. Long term breeding support, including hybridisation and gainful exploitation of heterosis through cloning, will revolutionise productivity of plantations with substantial improvement in desirable wood qualities. Sound silviculture and management practices, with due safeguards, are essential for enhancing gains from clonal plantations.