S. B. Singh , Promod Kumar , K. G. Prasad , R. K. Singh , N. Malik

Abstract

A field experiment replicated four times in randomised block design on highly eroded slopy Sandy loam soil, was conducted to see the effects of two levels each of nitrogen (control and 60 kg N/ha) and phosphorus (control of 20 kg P₂O₅/ha) and mulch application (control, pine needles and local shrubs) on the mortality and growth of Pinus roxburghii transplantation. Observation recorded after 21 months revealed that application of mulches in general, and local shrubs in particular, resulted in higher height and lower mortality of plants. Effectiveness of nitrogen and phosphorus for boosting up the plant growth and retarding its mortality enhanced through their application with mulch.

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R. M. Singhal , Promod Kumar

Abstract

The biochemical composition of the forest litter, before and after its incorporation in to the mineral soil was studied in certain forest areas of Chakrata Himalayas (U.P). It was found that although the humus type was 'Orthirhizomull' under all the species under investigation viz. Cedrus devdara, Pinus wallichiana, Pinus roxburghii, Picea smithiana and Abies pindrow its composition, in terms of recognisable organic substances was different from species to species. The litter under P. roxburghii and P. wallichiana was richer in cellulose and hemicellulose content while others in fats, waxes, oils and water soluble polysaccharides contents. Conversion of these substances into high molecular weight compounds was on account of decomposition and synthesis by the primary and secondary flora.

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P. P. Malhotra , V. N. Tandon , Promod Kumar

Abstract

The biomass production, its distribution by various tree components for 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14 years pld plantations of Pinus patula Schl and Cham at Ootacamund(Tamil Nadu) has been discussed. The total blomass ranges from 25 t/ha (6 years) to 260 t/ha 914 years) of which production increases with increasing age upto 10 years and thereafter slowed down gradually. Though, for comparable ages, blomass recorde at kodaikanal is much higher, but the advantage of the hardiness of the species has been properly taken by the State Forest Department and almost all the frost holes have been brought under Pinus patula. The detailed study on nutrient cycling is suggested.

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