Distribution of Nutrients and their Return through Litter Fall in an Age Series of Pinus patula, Schl. And Cham. Plantations in Nilgiris

The distribution of nutrients, litter production and return of nutrients through litter fall in 6, 8. 10, 12, and 14 years old plantations of Pinus patula raised in Nilgiris have been discussed. Highest concentration of nutrients were found in the needles. Maximum amount of nutrients were contained in bole which accounted for about 36 per cent (6 years) to 62 per cent (l4 years) of the total aerial tree components. Harvesting of bole and bark at the age of 14 years will remove 245 (N), 2 (P), 109 (K) 136(Ca) and 175 (Mg) kg/ha from the site. A total of 2555, 9209, 10562, 10827 and 11775 kg/ha or annual litter produced in these plantations at ages 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14 years respectively. Of the total litter, Needle contributed maximum (between 83.6 to 99.6 per cent). The total annual return of nutrients in all the six plantations has also been discussed. The maximum amount of all nutrients are return through needle litter.