The seed factor in forest establishment

Abstract

Large scale deforestation all over the world necessitates planting of more trees to augment the forest estate. Tree planting and forest production require the use of lots of seeds to raise seedlings. Factors of importance are those directly relating to the seed as well as those indirect factors affecting the germination of seeds, early growth and survival of seedlings. The main factors include physiological and physical attributes of seeds, factors controlling availability in time and quantity, seed extraction/handling, viability, storage, germination and early growth characteristics; nursery site condition, management know-how and dedicated staff are also vital to the success of forest production by affecting the sustenance of growth, development and survival of seedlings raised. Nursery staff, seed vendors and seedling producers should be properly trained in seed technology and nursery practices in order to enhance the quality and quantity of seedlings produced from available seeds. This is because seed is an invaluable regenerative propagule without which there would be neither seedlings nor forest establishment.

Keywords: Forest, germination, nursery, seed, survival.