Tree establishment in the semi-arid lands of Kenya - role of mycorrhizal inoculation and water-retaining polymer
Abstract
Effects of vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal inoculation and the incorporation of water-holding polymer to the rooting zone, on tree survival and early growth have been assessed at two semi-arid sites in Kenya. Mycorrhizal inoculation was generally beneficial to plant growth in the nursery while polymer had few effects. Survival 30 weeks after planting was significantly affected by the experimental treatments in three out of four tree species at each site; inoculation enhanced survival, while polymer reduced it. Improvements in survival of up to 80% were achieved. Mycorrhizal effects on growth of Acacia tortilis and Prosopis juliflora after outplanting occurred with increases of up to 36% being obtained. The detrimental effects of polymer were unexpected.
Citation
WILSON, J., MUNRO, R.C., INGLEBY, K., MASON, P.A.,. (1991). Tree establishment in the semi-arid lands of Kenya - role of mycorrhizal inoculation and water-retaining polymer. Forest Ecology and Management. 45. (1-4). pp. 153-163. [doi:10.1016/0378-1127(91)90213-F]