Propagating Framework Tree Species to Restore Seasonally Dry Tropical Forest: Implications of Seasonal Seed Dispersal and Dormancy

background

This paper evaluates the seed germination characteristics of native tree species selected for reforestation in Thailand and cultivated in nurseries.

Research Goals & Methods

Thirty-six species were selected using the "framework species method" for tropical forest restoration. The method, developed in Queensland and used in tropical Asia, attempts to accelerate the natural succession of a forest by planting a mixture of trees including: fast growing trees to form large canopies along with trees that provide food or habitat to wildlife.

Conclusions & Takeaways

In nursery conditions, 29 of the species had greater than 60% germination of seed. Twelve of the species germinated rapidly (within 3 weeks), eight germinated slowly (after 12 weeks) and the rest were intermediates. The species with rapid germination were: Castanopsis calathiformis; Cinnamomum iners; Debregeasia longifolia; Eriobotrya bengalensis; Erythrina stricta; Erythrina subumbrans; Markhamia stipulata; Melia toosendan; Planchonella punctata; Quercus semiserrata; Quercus vestita; Spondias axillaris.