Management and Performance of Eucalyptus camaldulensis in the Murewa and Mutoko Districts of Zimbabwe

BACKGROUND

Zimbabwe’s afforestation program has used Eucalyptus trees because of their fast growth rate and their ability to adapt to different environmental conditions. These trees are grown to provide fuelwood and to curb deforestation. However, the afforestation program had poor results. Hence, there was a need to examine causes of poor performance to justify why the program still needs expansion.

RESEARCH GOALS AND METHODS

To determine growth performance and survival rates of E. camal in the two districts selected for the study, the area was stratified into two regions. Then, twelve sampling sites were selected from each stratum. From these sampling sites, all woodlots were located and then five per site were randomly selected. From each woodlot, the woodlot owner was identified and given a questionnaire, with questions on the management operations they practice in their woodlots. Aerial photographs were used to assess natural vegetation cover around each woodlot.

CONCLUSION AND TAKEAWAYS

Growth performance differed due to different management practices. Some practices were common in several woodlots, while others were being neglected. Resource availability determines the type of management operations in each woodlot. Hence, there is need for effective extension and financial support, especially during establishment stage, which is high resource demanding, so that high levels of management can be achieved.