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INDIAN FORESTRY
A Breakthrough Approach to Forest Service
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FORESTRY
^ Hrea^^roujft ^^firoacft To *foresf Service ^
K. Manikandan
S. Prabhu, i.F.s.
2016
JAIN BROTHERS (New Delhi)
16/873, East Park Roacl, Near Dr. N.C.Joshi Hospital,
Karol Bagh, New Delhi -110005
Phones:011-23618426,45097398
E-mail:jaln_bros@hotmail.com
Vyebsite: www.thejainbrothers.com
Published by:
Shri Sunil Kumar Jain
for <
Jain Brothers(New Delhi) 1
16/873, East Park Road, Karol Bagh, New Delhi-110 005
Phones : 011-23618426, 45097398
Branch Office at:
© All rights reserved. No part of this book should be produced or translated in any form without
written permission from publisher and authors.
Price : ? 395.00
ISBN :978.81-8360-174-0
Foreword
Forests occupy central position in nature. They restore ecological balance of all ecosystems and
maintain biological diversity.
Forests have since long been looked upon as revenue generation sector, they are fast vanishing
from our country. There is a need for holistic understanding on the relationship between the environ
ment and nation’s development. There is a need for good planning and execution of our rich, diverse
forest resource which is scarce and precious. In this aspect, the foresters play a vital role in attaining
ecological security.
Forestry has always been a successful optional subject for the Indian forest service and other state
forest service exams. Despite its success, there is no single text book that deals with forestry in its
entirety. The present book, “Indian Forestry- A Breakthrough Approach to Forest Service” by
Dr. K. Manikandan and Sri. S. Prabhu is an attempt to fulfill this gap.
The authors have written this book as a way of reaching out to all IFoS aspirants and students of
forestry. All subject matter are made carefully and systematically presented with the requirements of
forest service exams. This simplified, full coverage text book will be easily grasped by any average
aspirant.
I believe that this book would be of great value and give a comprehensive outlook on forestry for
the forest service aspirants in our country.
(N.VIJAI)
Preface to the Sixth Edition
1 he first edition of this book was an ambitious effort to guide the prospective young talents to
embrace Forestry as an alternate professional course and help them become an integral part of forester
fraternity. 1 would like to thank all my readers, forestry graduates, IFoS aspirants, dear friends,
students, range officers, and forest researchers for their wide acceptance of this book and would like
to express my gratitude for their thoughtful comments, feedback and appreciation.
In the past few years, there has been an incremental development in the quality of forest research
which has led to many new arenas, and also technical developments in various aspects of forestry.
While the first edition of this book was a launch pad to address the concern of forest fraternity that
there was no one single book that provided a 360 degree view of Forestry and the competitive IFoS
exam for the aspirants. It is also worth mentioning that the format of the various competitive exams
have undergone few critical changes in the recent past.
This revised edition is an attempt to address all the recent developments in Forestry. We have also
taken care to address few technical corrections in the previous edition. Most notably, this edition
provides specific answers for previous year IFoS questions and also gives a repository of all the
previous year questions.
We truly hope that the readers shall find this revised edition mere lucid, helpful and enjoyable with
the enriched information. Teaching faculties could also stand to benefit with this revised edition as it
presents a simple approach to teach complex forestry subjects to the young talents aspiring to embrace
Forestry as a career path.
^ We would also welcome our readers to access ancillary educational materials, presentations,
general studies materials, practical manual and other useful information from my google site:
https://sUes.google.com/site/drkanimanikandan/home.
If this revised edition enables our forestry aspirants transform into foresters then would be truly
elated that our years of collective efforts has indeed been rewarded. As always, we would eagerly look
forward for your comments and suggestions so that the future edition of this book could be taken to
a much higher level.
Happy reading!
K. MANIKANDAN
Preface
There are many professionals and students who are seriously thinking of giving a shot at the
Indian Forest Service with Forestry as the optional subject. It is imperative that before starting to
prepare for any exam, the below questions would haunt each aspirant; Where should the preparation
start? Where should it end? and is there any central repository of all material information that one needs
to crack an exam?
Well, this book is precisely the answer for your questions. It is anybody’s guess that there will
be an increasing demand for young hearts and minds that can preserve our forest resources. If you
have decided that you should devote yourself for that cause; then there is no better place than Indian
Forest Service! This book will aid all the proud IFoS aspirants by making their preparation simpler and
easier.
The driving force behind this book is mainly the thoughts of many foresters, successful IFS
candidates and also the striving IFS aspirants for sharing their knowledge that they have gained over
several months and years of dedicated preparation. This book is therefore a collaborative effort of a
focus group of many dedicated professionals who have excelled in this field. The inflow of positive
feedbacks and suggestions from other fellow students is also considered while constructing this work.
This book encompasses of 26 chapters which are thoroughly revised and updated, which covers
most of the forestry aspects including few additional facts relevant to the IFoS interview. The book is
profusely illustrated with simple diagrams and photographs which are easily reproducible at the time of
writing IFS exam. Moreover, the language used in this book is very simple, lively and readable. This
book also contains the questions asked in the previous year examinations. As emphasized earlier, this
book covers the entire syllabus for forestry and hence the aspirants need not depend on any other
extensive individual text books. In addition to IFoS aspirants, we hope that this book will also be useful
to all forestry graduates, foresters, researchers and nature lovers.
If the book is useful for whom it is meant, we would happily feel that our years of collective
efforts has indeed been rewarded. We would look forward for comments and suggestions from the
readers so that the future edition of this book could be taken to the next level.
K. MANIKANDAN
S. PRABHU, I.F.S.
Contents
1. Silviculture 1-70
6. Tribology 145-150
SILVICULTURE
Silviculture is that branch offorestry which deals with establishment, development, care and
reproduction ofstands oftimber. Silvics is the study oflife history and general characteristics afforest
trees andcrops with particular reference to environmentalfactors as the basisforpractice ofsilviculture.
Silviculture has specific relation with other disciplines such as forestry, forest protection, forest
mensuration, forest utilization, forest economics and forest management etc. The main differences
between silviculture and silvics are given in the below table:
Silviculture Silvic.s
● Silviculture is that branch of forestry which ● Silvics is the study of life history and general
deals with the establishment, development, characteristics of forest trees and crops with
care and reproduction of stands of timber particular reference to environmental factors
● It is the science dealing with both theory '● It is the basic theory upon which silviculture
and practice stands
● It is a broader term ● It is a part of silviculture
● It deals with the procedure of obtaining ● It deals with the study of tree and forests as
natural regeneration under various systems biological units, laws governing the growth
and methods of tending of young crops and effect of environment on vegetation
● It is the application of silvics ● It is the principle for silviculture
Objectives of Silviculture
1. Production of higher volume per unit area
2. Production of superior quality timber
3. Production of economically valuable species
4. Reducing the rotation of species
5. Afforestation
6. Reforestation
7. Introduction of exotics
creepers. Twiners grow spirally around another plant or support and do not possess tendrils, rootlets,
shoots or thorn. E.g., Echites, Chonemorpha, Clerodendron. Creepers cannot grow vertically on their
own Eg.y Morning Glory.
Tree Development
Development of tree starts from germination of seeds up to harvest. The main stages in the
development oftrees are seedling, sapling and tree. Seedling is a plant grown from seed till it reaches
about one meter height. Sapling is the young tree from the time when the rate of height growth begins
to slow down and crown expansion becomes marked. Tree is a plant, which has a well defined single
pole and is more than 6 m in height.
b)Stem
Stem is the principal axis ofplantfrom which buds and shoots are developed. Bole refers the
lower part ofstem up to a point where main branches are given off. The stem diameter decreasesfrom
base to upwards which is technically called as taper. In general, stem with least taper and cylindrical in
shape is preferable. Fluting refers the irregular swellings and involutions on the stem. This renders the
utility oftimber and reduces the value too.
c)Crown
Crown is the upper branchy part ofthe tree above the bole. Crown development refers the
expansion ofcrown measured as crown length and crown width. Crown ofthe tree is differentiated based
on their shape and size. Phonix, Cocus and Borrassus have cylindrical crown whereas all conifers
comes under conical crown type. Sphericaltype crown includes mango,neem, Terminalia and Madhuca.
Albizzia stipulata has broad and flat topped crown.
4 INDIAN FORESTRY
Based on the crown, the trees in the forests are classified as follows:
1. Dominant trees (Class symbol 1; abb-D)
These are the trees of upper most canopy. Based on the leading shoots, these dominant trees are
further classified as follows:
(0 Predominant trees(abb Dl); The tallest trees which are free from competition.
(/O Codominant trees(abb D2): These are is the trees having 5/6 ofthe height of predominant
species.
These are further classified according to their vigour and soundness;
la - Trees with normal crown development and good stem form
Ib - Trees with defective stem or crown
Ic - Trees with very defective stem or crown
Id - Trees with very thin bole and very constricted crown
2. Dominated trees (Class symbol - II; abb - d)
Trees with a height of of the tallest trees are referred as dominated trees.
Subclasses
d)Branch
Branch refers the shoot or secondary stem growing from the main stem of a tree or other plant.
The branching habits oftrees differ with species. Bombax ceiba and Firms wallichiana produces whorl
type branching. The branches ofPopulus nigra and Cupressus sembervirens make an angle of 20-30°
with main stem. The horizontal type branching is observed in old deodar and Duabanga sonneratioides.
The Anogeissus pendula and Terminalia myriocarba have downward dropping branches.
SILVICULTURE 5
e) Root
In plants, root is the organ of a plant body that typically lies below the surface of the soil.
However, root can also be aerial (growing above the ground) or aerating (growing up above the
ground or especially above water). Hence,root is defined as a part ofa plant body that bears no leaves,
and lacks nodes.
A true root system consists of a primary root and secondary roots or lateral roots. The
primary root originates in the radicle ofthe seedling which is prominent and has a single, dominant axis.
During its growth it rebranches to number of lateral roots. Lateral roots are more fibrous in nature and
forms diffused branches in all directions.
Specialized roots
The roots, or parts of roots, of many plant species have become specialized to serve adaptive
purposes and some of the specialized roots are as follows:
1. Adventitious roots arise from the stem, branches, leaves, or old woody roots. E.g., willow
{Salix).
2. Aerating roots (or pneumatophores) are the roots raised above the ground, especially
above water. E.g,Avicennia, Sonneratia. These roots facilitates gas exchange under anaerobic
soil conditions.
3. Aerial roots are the roots found entirely above the ground. They function as prop roots or as.
the trunk. E.g, Ficus glomerata, epiphytic orchids.
4. Haustorial roots are the roots of parasitic plants that can absorb water and nutrients from
another plant. E.g, mistletoe {Viscum album) and dodder.
5. Stilt roots are the adventitious support roots that grow down from lateral branches. It is
common among mangrove species.
6. Storage roots are modified roots for storage of food or water, such as carrots and beets.
They include some taproots and tuberous roots.
Buttresses are the out growths formed usually vertically above the lateral roots and thus connect
the base of the stem with roots. This is usually associated with species lacking tap roots system and
shallow soils with rocks.
f)Bark
Bark is the outermost layers ofstem and root of woody plants. It consists of inner bark and outer
bark. The inner bark is a living tissue which/includes the innermost area ofthe periderm. The outer bark
refers to the dead tissues on the surface of the stems. Bark may be smooth or rough in texture. In some
trees, appearance of bark gives an idea about the age of tree.
Plant Propagation
Plant propagation refers to the multiplication or perpetuation of individual or group of plants
which have specific value to human kind. Plants can be propagated by two means viz., sexual or asexual
propagation.
6 INDIAN FORESTRY
1)Sexual propagation
Sexualpropagation is a method ofplantpropagation in which plants are propagated by means of
seed. It is the common and widely used method of propagation.
Aerial Seeding
Aerial seeding is the process of dispersing the seed aerially.
Choice of Species
The species for aerial seeding should have the following characteristics:
1. Smaller to medium sized seed is preferable
2. Seed should be available in large quantity
3. Frequent and prolific seed availability is essential
4. Seed should have the ability to germinate on the rough soil surface
5. Rapid germination and fast seedling growth is desirable. This reduces grazing injuiy
6. Ability to withstand extreme temperature and prolonged dry periods
SILVICULTURE 7
7. Seed should be hard enough to withstand the falling impact from higher height
8. Seeds should be non palatable (escape from birds, squirrels and insects)
9. Ability to tolerate a wide range ofsoil condition
10. Seed handling is possible with mechanical devices
Kg., Acacia nilotica. Acacia tortolis, Prosopis juliflora, R cineraria, A. catechu, Dalbergia
sisoo and bamboos.
Mechanism
Ground preparation is necessary for better seed germination and survival. Dry sites should be
suitably disked to obtain the optimum tilth, aeration and moisture retention. Seeds are coated with
chemicals before aerial seeding in order to avoid predation. The treatment of seeds with fungicides
repels birds and insects. Latex is used as binder in coating of seeds. Aluminum powder is used as a
lubricant to prevent the seed from sticking as they pass through the machines.
Advantages
1. Aerial seeding is less expensive than the manual seeding.
2. Large area can be covered in a short time span.
3. It avoids raising of seedlings.
4. The distribution of seed is more uniform.
5. It covers most inaccessible areas.
6. The labour requirement is less.
Disadvantages
1. It needs larger quantity of seeds which is very difficult to procure.
2. It involves wastage of seed.
3. The results are unpredictable.
4. The establishment ofplant population is uneven which makes further management as a difficult
task.
5. The density and spacing of trees can not be worked out in aerial seeding.
6. Grassy sites are not suitable as it obstructs the seeds reaching ground.
7. Washing away of seeds by the monsoon rainfall.
Indian Experience
In India, aerial seeding has been done on experiment basis in Chambal ravines in UP, Rajasthan,
West Bengal and Western Ghats of Maharastra.
The research carried out during 1982 shows that the survival percentage was 97.3 and 2.7 for
Prosopisjuliflora and Acacia nilotica respectively. The survey indicated that 25% of the area has not
responded for aerial seeding at all.
Prosopis juliflora gave a survival percentage 96.06 followed by Acacia nilotica and Acacia
catechu with survival percentage of 2.68 and 1.26 respectively.
8 INDIAN FORESTRY
There has been a mixed reaction about efficiency of aerial seeding amongst foresters and others.
According to theTorest department of UP,aerial seeding will not be of much help for ravine afforestation.
Many problems with aerial seeding have come on the surface of soil. Hard surface, presence of surface
crust, stoniness and excessive weeds decreases the success ofgermination and establishment ofseedlings.
Biotic pressure such as grazing and eating of seeds by rodents are most common problems. The seed
also get washed down during monsoon where the intensity of rainfall is high for a short duration.
Washing away of seedlings have also been reported. Other problem with aerial seedling is lack of
establishment ofseedling after initial germination due to many other factors such as subsurface hardpan,
poor soil fertility, drought, fire, etc.
2)Asexual propagation
Asexualpropagation refers the multiplication or perpetuation ofplantsfrom any vegetative parts
other than seed. Asexual propagation has following advantages:
1) This is the only possibility when the plants are not producing seeds.
2) In some cases, certain rootstocks have tolerance to salinity, pest and disease resistance.
These can be suitably exploited for beneficial uses.
3) Asexually propagated plants are short stature one.
4) Phis facilitates pruning, spraying and harvesting operations.
5) The plants obtained are true to type nature. Hence, it looks uniform appearance.
Methods of Asexual Propagation
1)Cuttage
It refers the method ofpropagation ofplants by the use ofdetained vegetative plant parts which
when placed under conditionsfavourablefor rejuvenation. Cutting is defined as any vegetative plant
part when detainedfrom the plant is capable ofregenerating the missing organs. There are several types
of cuttings:
a) Root cutting: Root cuttings of 10-15 cm are taken from the plant and planted horizontally.
This will give good seedlings. Kg., Seedless Bred fruit.
b) Stem cuttings: These are the detained plant parts taken from the stem.
c) Herbaceous cutting: In this type plant parts of herbaceous succulent plants are used as
cutting. It produces roots easily in quick and short times. E.g., Germanium, Chrysanthemum,
Coleus, carnation,
d) Leaf cutting: Leaf and closely related parts are used as cutting. This is mostly done in
herbaceous plants. E.g. Red begonia, Bryophyllum, Sanseveria.
e) Leaf bud cutting consisting ofleaf blade, petioles and short piece ofthe auxiliary bud rise to
the stem. Roots will arise on the lower part of this portion planted. Eg, Tea, Camellia,
Rhododendron.
2) Sex of plant: In case of maple, male plants produce better rooting than the female plant
pans. But it varies with species to species.
3) Age of the root stock: The aged root stock will reduce the possibility of rooting.
4) Time of collection: In case of evergreen trees, it is better to collect cuttings during or after
flush growth has completed, i.e., spring to leaf fall. If cuttings is collected during summer, it
will result in poor germination.
5) Presence of foliage on cutting enhances more evaporation. As cutting has no roots, it is not
able to absorb as fast as evaporation. Hence, reduce the number of leaves in the cutting
leaving few photosynthetically active leaves.
6) Flowering or vegetative wood: This varies with species to species. In case of jasmine,
flowered wood is preferable than the vegetative wood.
7) Type of cutting: Cutting from hard-wood produces less success than the cuttings obtained
from soft woods.
8) Treatment of cutting with growth regulators enhances the rooting and shooting of cuttings.
9) Wounding of cutting increase rooting in Magnolia and Rhododendron.
B)External factors
1) Moisture retention: Retention of sufficient moisture is necessary for rooting especially for
herbaceous cuttings. It supplies moisture needed for transpiration. Otherwise cutting will dry
quickly.
2) Humidity ofthe surrounding should be humid. This reduces transpirational loss from cuttings
and keeps the cutting as moist and avoids drying.
3) Temperature: The ambient air temperature needed is about 21-27°C. Higher temperature
leads to more moisture loss and enhances bud formation.
4) Light: Optimum sun light both in terms of duration and quality is needed to do sufficient
photosynthesis by the plants.
5) Rooting media: The rooting media may be of soil, peat, vermiculite, sand, etc. But it should
provide optimum pH, nutrients, aeration and good physical support to roots for growth.
2)Layering
Layering is the development ofroots on stems while it is attached to the parent plant. In order to
develop roots from a living stem, girdling or a small incision is made on the bark. This restricts the
downward flow of metabolites, carbohydrates and hormones at this point. Hence, roots are encouraged
to develop at this point. The branches with rooting are removed for eventual planting out.
This is easy to perform compared to other methods. This is useful when the cuttage is
unsuccessful. In this method, any desired size of plant can be obtained.
Limitations
1) This method is limited to certain plants only.
2) This method is suitable to plants that produce low lying branches.
3) The number of plants produced is less.
4) After care of plant is more essential to maintain the plant survival.
5) Special platform and provisions has to be erected which is difficult one.
10 INDIAN FORESTRY
Technique
A)Ground layering
Ground layer is oftwo types v/z., simple ground layering and compound or serpentine layering.
In simple ground layering stems are wounded and partly buried below the soil and top ofthe branches
should be in air. Small stones are kept over the soil. It takes two months to produce rooting. In this
method,one single plant is obtained from the single branch. Hence it limits large scale plant propagation.
E.g., Guava. In compound or serpentine layering,the same branch is buried under different portions.
In this way more number of plants obtained from the single branch of the plant. Kg., Clematis.
3)Trench layering
Trench layering induces new shoots from length ofburied branch.This is also known as etiolation
layering. The parent plant is planted at an angle(30-40 degrees)so new shoots can be pegged down in
shallow trenches and covered with soil. When rooted, the shoots can be detached from the parent plant
and planted out.
4)Tip layering
To tip layer, dig a small hole several inches deep, insert the tip of a current season’s shoot or
cane, and fill around it with soil. The tip will turn and grow upward, while the bend of the stem that
stays in the soil will grow roots. Care for the layered plant is the same as that used for simple layering.
Eg., Black berry and raspberry.
5)Mound layering
It is also known as stool layering is useful with heavy-stemmed, closely branched shrubs and
rootstocks of tree fruits. Cut the plant back to 1 inch above the soil surface in the dormant season.
Dormant buds will produce new shoots in spring. Mound soil over the new shoots as they grow. Roots
will develop at the bases ofthe young shoots. Remove the layers in the dormant season. Mound layering
works well on apple rootstocks, magnolia, and cotoneaster.
SILVICULTURE 11
B)Airlayering
It is also called as gootee or marcottage. In this method, roots are produced from aerial stem
where the stem has severed at an upward angle. Normally, 2.5 to 3 cm bark is girdled. This injured
portion is covered with moist rooting medium such as sphagnum moss or vermiculite and wrapped v/ith
polythene sheet. This layered part is sprayed with water at sufficient interval to avoid drying. After
emergence of roots, below portion is girdled by a half cut. This improves the seedling by encouraging
more root development. After 15 days, next halfcut is given and the plant is separated from the mother
tree. E.g.^ Indian rubber, guava, crotons.
4
Rootstock is the plant above which scion is inserted. It may be of two types’ viz., seedling
rootstock and clonal rootstock. Seedling root stock is one in which root stock plants are developed
from the seed origin. As the seeds have different genetic constitution, it will produce irregular rootstocks.
Kg., mango, plum, beaches. In case of clonal rootstock, it is obtained from the vegetative sources of
single parent. These are asexual on^^ and produces uniform rootstock. Kg,mango, citrus.
Methods of Graftage
i)Inarching or approach grafting
In this method, scion is attached to the mother tree itself. First rootstock is brought nearby the
mother tree, then side branches of similar thickness is severed and joined with each other. This is tied
with banana fiber or twine and pasted with cow dung mud mixture. Growth hormones are also applied
if applicable. Sufficient moisture is sprayed frequently. After 6-8 weeks, half cut is given both below as
well as top ofthe cut portion. This improves the hardening ofnew plants. After 10 days,full cut is given
and plant is separated. Scion is cut below the graft point and rootstock is cut above the graft point.
Kg, Mango, sapota.
ii)Side grafting
In this method, terminal shoots of past season growth is used as scion. The scion is removed
from the mother tree and the lower leaves and petioles are removed except for top 10 cm. Both scion
and root stock is cut above the grafting point after scion reaches about 7-10 cm. This is also known as
veneer grafting,
iv)Cleft grafting
In this method,the scion base is made like a wedge and rootstock is splitted so as to insert on the
scion. Here,the rootstock and scion is need not to be in same thickness. But root stock thickness should
be about 2-8 cm.
SILVICULTURE 13
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v)Budding
Budding is an art ofinserting a bud on the rootstock in such a manner that both will unite and
continue to grow as a single plant. In this, parent tree from which bud is taken is called as bud wood.
The bud wood should be matured, past season bud. Parent tree should be defoliated 10-15 days in
advance so as to activate the buds. It will give better establishment.
Methods of Budding
i) Shield or T budding: In this method, T or inverted T shape incision is made on the rootstock.
For this, a transverse cut of 1-1.5 cm is made first. Thereafter, a vertical cut of 2.5-3 cm is made below
or above this point. In this part, bark is lifted using budding knife. Similarly, scion of similar shape is
removed and inserted on the root stock by raising the bark of the root stock. Then this part is tied with
the help of banana fiber except leaving the active bud in the scion. E.g.. Orange, rose, plums and
peaches
X 1.5 cm is removed and
ii) Patch budding: In patch budding, a rectangular sized bark of 3
similar size of desired scion is inserted. E.g., Citrus, mango, rubber, annona.
UP) Flap or forked budding: In this, transverse incision is made in the rootstock and bark peeled
for 5 cm square. Then scion is pushed under the flap till the end of the exposed edge of the rootstock.
Flap is then cut to half and brought to cover the bud shield partially and then wrapped,
/v) Ring budding: In this method, two circular cut are made one above the other with a distance
of 3 cm. Then one vertical cut connecting these two rings are made. Then this ring of 3 cm bud is
removed carefully from the rootstock. In a similar fashion scion is removed from the bud wood and
properly budded with rootstock. E.g., Cinchona.
v)Cormi The swollen base ofa stem axis enclosed by the dry, scale-like leaves is called as corm.
It is a solid stem structure with distinct nodes and intemodes. E.g.^ Gladiolus, elephant yam.
vi) Tuber: It is a modified stem structure which develops below the ground as a result of
swelling of the siib-apical portion of a stolen and subsequent accumulation of reserve materials.
E.g., Potato, Jerusalem artichoke,
vi) Runner: Runner is a specialized stem which develops from the axis of the leaf at the crown
of the plant. This grows horizontally along the ground. Eg,Mentha spp.
6) Micro propagation: Micro or in vitro propagation refers to the development of new plants
from very small pieces of plants in an artificial medium under aseptic conditions.
Nursery
Nursery refers to an area from which seedlings are raised for eventual planting out.
Need for nurseries
There are various plantation programs being implemented by the State Forest Departments,Forest
based industries, NGOs,etc. But the availability ofquality planting material is not adequate. The various
needs for the large scale nursery establishment are listed below:
● To meet the afforestation needs for increasing the forest and vegetative cover.
● To meet the demands of reforestation works.
● To meet the growing demands of industrial wood through captive plantations.
● To provide seedlings for avenue, railway and road side plantings.
● To meet the farm as well as social forestry needs.
Kinds of Nurseries
another place depending upon the demand and supply of nursery stock. The seedlings from temporary
nurseiy are used for specific afforestation program, gap filling or causality replacement. Whenever the
objectives accomplished,the nursery is closed.The cost involved is less because it needs less infrastructure
and staff.
b) Permanent Nursery: Permanent nursery supplies the seedlings regularly year after year. It
caters the needs oflarger areas for a longer period. This is provided with enough infi^tructure facilities
in a central place.It should have permanent staff,transporting facilities, good water source and availability
of labour.
Nursery layout
After proper selection of site, nursery is laid out with the following nursery components such as
fence, office room, store room, water source, mist tent, plant house, nursery yard, working space,
waste pit, foot path, road and entrance.
Area requirement
An area of0.25 ha has been considered for a viable nursery wherein 1.25 lakh seedlings can be
raised. The size of the nursery may be increased according to the capacity and demand for planting
material.
Seedling establishments
In nursery, seedlings are established in mother beds or containers such as poly bags, pots, etc.
Seedlings can be established from the seeds or through vegetative means.The vegetative means includes
cutting, grafting,budding,layering,etc.In case ofseedling establishment from seed,preliminary treatment
16 INDIAN FORESTRY
ofseeds is essential to improve germination. The reasons for the delayed or failed germination ofseeds
are as follows:
> Tough and fibrous seed coat or hard shell
> Seeds containing higher lipids
> Presence of germination inhibiting substances
> Immature embryo
> After ripening process
The problem of germination can be overcome through followirig pretreatment measures.
Germination hazard Pre-treatments
In addition to these, seeds are further treated with pesticides to prevent the eating of seeds by
birds as well as rodents. Some time seeds are hardened by treating with salt solutions of suitable
concentration. Seed pellatization enhances the ease and uniform distribution of seeds during sowing.
Biofertilizer treatments enhances the nutrients availability to growing seedlings.
Polybag nursery
Seedlings will be ready for trans-planting within 21-30 days. So remove the shade a day before
trans-planting as this gives the seedling chance to get used to the strong sun-shine. The site for the
polybag nursery should be near the nursery beds to avoid long distance transportation of polybags. The
size ofthe polybag will vary depending on the species. In general, a size of 16 cm x 12 cm is sufficient
for raising the seedlings up to 9 months. The normal thickness of polybags for seedling production
should be 150-500 gauge depending upon the bag size.
The poly bag nursery should be partially shaded. The optimum shade for raising young seedling
is about 50 percent. Shade can be provided by using agronets, palm leaves or cmshed bamboo strips.
For large scale seedling production, a permanent shelter with agronets is preferred, to provide more
uniform shade. The polythene bags should be arranged in blocks. The length of the block can be
adjusted to suit the nursery. It is better to arrange the bags on a thick polythene sheet spread over
the nursery ground to prevent the penetration of growing roots to the ground. The increase in width of
the nursery bed can result in overcrowding, over shading, rapid spread of pests and diseases, and
interference in carrying out routine weeding, fertilizing and watering.
Hardening of Seedlings
Hardening of seedling is essential before planting out in field. First, the shade to seedling is
gradually removed. Thereafter, watering schedule is altered in such a way that quantum of water is
reduced sequentially. This hardens the young seedlings and improves its adaptability under drought
conditions in the field. In case ofgreen house plants, first plants are taken out from the green house and
kept under shade for some duration and thereafter similar hardening process is carried out.
Forest
Forest is defined as a plant community predominantly of trees and other woody vegetation,
usually with a closed canopy. Legally, it is defined as an area proclaimed to beforest under aforest law.
18 INDIAN FORESTRY
Also it is defined as an area set asidefor the production oftimber and otherforestproduce, or maintained
under woody vegetationfor certain indirect benefits. Forest is composed of many plant species which
may be of principal, accessory or auxiliary species. Principal species of a forest is one which is the
most important species in a mixed forest either by volume and value, etc. Accessory species is a useful
species of less than the principal species. Auxiliary species is a species of inferior quality in the forest.
Stand and forest are different in meaning. Stand is defined as an aggregation oftrees occupying
a specific area sufficiently uniform in composition, age, arrangement and distinguishable from the
adjoiningforests. Hence forest designates aggregation of different stands.
Forest classification
Forest classification is defined as the grouping and arrangement afforests based on defined
criteria such as composition, age, climatic elements, structure, habitat, etc. As like any classification,
forest classification is also based on many basic elements of forest or characteristics. This includes
physiognomy, habitat, species composition, structure of forest, physiography, etc. The objectives and
different schemes of forest classficiation are described here under.
//) Mixed forest is a forest which is composed of two or more species in a storey. At least the
canopy of one species must be more than 20%.
3) Ecological classification of forest: This system considers climate and vegetation. This is
most widely accepted one. Kg, Gaussean classification. Champion and Seth classification. In India,
Champion and Seth classification is followed and is described hereunder in details.
IB Northern Tropical North East India, West MAT:22-26®C Over wood: Dipterocarpus,
Wet Evergreen Bengal, Assam, Orissa MARF:2500-6400 mm Shqrea Artocarpus, Syzygium,
Forest Mesua, Michelia.
Middle storey: Vatica,Garcinia,
Dendrocalamus, Hasmiltoni,
Melocanna, Bambusa
Under growth: Clerodendron,
Ixora, Canes.
{Contd...)
Sli,VICU^.TURE 21
(Table: Contd,.,)
Forest types Distribution Climatic requirement Species composition
3B. South Indian Gujar^, Karnataka, MAT:24-27®C Over wood: Teak, Grewia,
Tropical Moist Maharashtra, TN, MARF:1200-3000 mm Lagerstroemia, Terminalia
Deciduous Forest M.P, Kerala tomentosa, Adina
Middle Storey: Dillenia,
Kydia, Dendrocalamus
Undergrowth: Clerodendron
3C. North Indian U.P., Bihar, Orissa, MAT:21-26®C Over wood: Sal. Schima
Tropical Moist M.P., Bengal, Assam MARF:1000-2000 mm wallichi and Terminalia,
Deciduous forest tomentosa, Michelia
champaca
Middle storey:Dendrocalamus
hamiltoni syzygium
iContd...)
22 INDIAN FORESTRY
(Table: Contd...)
6B. Northern Tropical Semi arid areas of MAT:25-27«C Prosopis, Acacia spp.
Thorn Forest Punjab, Rajasthan, MARF:750-1250 mm
Gujarat, U.P., M.R
7. Tropical Dry Coastal belt from MAT:28-29®C Over wood: Azadirachta indica,
Evergreen Forests Tirunelveli to Nellore MARF:870-1270 mm Manilkara hexandara,
Canthium, Sy=ygium
8A. Southern sub - South Indian Hills MAT: 17-22°C Wigthtiana, Canthium,
tropical broad leaved MARF: 1500-6600 mm Syzygium cumimi, Manilkara
hill forest haxendra, Mangifera
13. Himayan dry Kashmir,H.P.,U.P., Sikkim, MAT:6-17®C Pinus gerardiana. Blue pine,
temperate forest Arunachal Pradesh MARF:80-800 mm Q. ilex. Deodar, J.> macropoda
{Contd...)
SILVICULTURE^ 23
(Table: Contd...)
Forest types Distribution Climatic requirement Species composition
14. Sub alpine forest
14. Sub alpine forest Himalayas MAT:2-6°C Abies spectabilis, Abies densa,
MARF:10-55 mm Juniperus, Spruce
15. Moist alpine
15. Moist alpine scrub Above 3400 m altitude Rhododendron, birch and other
deciduous trees
16. Dry alpine scrub
16. Dry alpine scrub Xerophytic condition Juniperus wallichiana,
J.communes, Artimisia
MARF: Mean Annual Rainfall MAT: Mean Annual Temperature
cloudiness, etc. Increasing altitude decreases the air temperature whereas increasing latitude shows
decreasing trend ofair temperature. Increasing distance from sea increases the air temperature. Nearness
to mountain decreases the air temperature considerably due to local influence.
Temperature influences the vegetation in many ways. It is the source ofener^for plant metabolic
activities such as photosynthesis,respiration and transpiration. It increases the microbial activities in soil
and enhances degradation oforganic wastes. It activates the enzymes. Extreme heat and cold is sensitive
to enzyme activation in plants. Temperature is inevitable for germination of seeds. Because of these
reasons, plants in arid and humid region differ in their characteristics,
c)Frost; A frost is defined as afuzzy covering ofice crystals thatforms on surfaces at or below
freezing. A frost occurs when a brief dip in temperatures to freezing or just below to that. It is formed
with or without ice crystals. Frost with ice crystals is technically called as hoarfrost whereas black
frost refers to a dry freeze without ice crystals, which kills vegetation, turning it black.”
There are three kinds of frosts. Radiation frost is one, which occurs in night with a clear sky
due to the loss of heat by radiation. Ground frost occurs when freezing confined to ground level. Here,
ice crystals formed on the surface objects, soil and vegetation. Advective frost is a frost produced by
cold air brought from elsewhere.
Frost pockets or frost holes or frost locality is an area where frost are more frequent and
more intense in general. Frostfree season is the period between the last injuripus frost in the spring and
the first injurious frost in the autumn. Frost causes harmful injuries to plants. The extent ofinjury varies
with species, location and other factors.
1) Extreme frost conditions kill young plants or parts of plant due to cell damage.
2) Frost Aeavmg (lifting of young seedlings above soil) occurs as a result of freezing of soil
water.
3) Pole and saplings are highly injurious to frost.
4) A frost crack is a fissure in tree caused by frost, which closes later and is covered with callus
growth.
5) It occurs at the base of old trees.
6) All these favour formation of cankers.
(I) Snow: Snow is a type ofprecipitation in theform ofcrystalline ice, consisting ofa multitude
ofsnowflakes thatfall fivm clouds. The process of precipitation is called snowfall. It occurs usually in
winter or when the air temperature is very cold. Snow plays some important role. It determines the
distribution ofsal in North India. Snow itself act as a water source. It influences the vegetation adversely
also. Because of weight added by snow, bending of branches occurs. It increases soil erosion by sliding.
The low temperature associated with snow arrests the plant growth by decreasing the living activity. It
favours fungus and associated microbial diseases.
e) Wind: Wind refers the motion of air due to the difference in air pressure across different
areas. Wind has both positive and negative effects on plants.
I) Positive effects
1) It brings fresh supply of CO,to plants.
2) Wind is the pollinating agent for many plant species.
3) Dispersal of seeds is carried out by winds.
H) Negative effects
1) Bending and breakage of plant branches
2) Uprooting of trees
3) Plant becomes short stature with tapering poles
4) Fast moving winds ruptures the timber and detoriates its quality
5) It spreads the forest fire and increases its intensity
6) Increase evaporation associated with wind causes drying up of plant and soil
7) Soil erosion is increased
y) Moisture: Moisture is obtained from the rain, snow, hail, dew and frost. Plants absorb its
moisture requirement from the soil water.
Importance of moisture
1. Water forms major constituents of plant cell (80-95%)
2. It maintains the cell turgidity
3. It is the medium for absorption of plant nutrients
4. It is the raw material for photosynthesis
5. It is required for translocation of manufactured food
6. It is essential for respiration which cannot take place in absence of water
7. It is necessary for transpiration to dissipate excessive heat
8. It is responsible for various movements of plants
9, It is essential for germination and viability of seeds
10. Water is required for weathering of soil
1 1. It determines the plant growth and distribution in an area
g) Bioclimatc: Bioclimate is the climate defined by the modified or adjusted climatic factors.
. The modified climatic conditions produced by the vegetation which differsfivm the general climate is
called as bioclimate.
26 INDIAN FORESTRY
h)Microclimate: Microclimate is defined as the climate ofsmall areas, whichfor some reason,
differs significantlyfrom the general climate ofthe area more particularly the climate under a plant or
other cover differing in extremes oftemperature and moisture etc.,form the climate outside that cover.
Importance of microclimate
1) Microclimate of different aspects of hills is different which decides regeneration of species.
In temperate Himalayas, fir and spruce regenerates well in northern aspect whereas deodar
prefers southern aspect.
2) It helps regeneration planning.
3) At higher altitude of subtropical zone, northern aspects become too cold for chir which is
replaced by kail in nature. Sowings of chir in such places are not likely to be successful.
4) In valleys, frost is more common and hence clear felling is avoided.
5) Introduction of exotic species needs detailed study of microclimate. Otherwise introduction
of exotic become failure.
II) Edaphic factor
Edaphicfactors refer to the ecological influences ofthe soil brought about by its physical and
chemical characteristics. Forest soil refers the portion of earth surface, which serve as a medium for
the sustenance of forest vegetation. Forest soils have relatively higher organic matter through the
continuous addition of leaf litter. Because of that these soils are darker in colour, better in aggregation
and favourable environment.A soil influences the vegetation through its physical,chemical and biological
properties. The different properties ofthe soil that influences the vegetation are described below:
A)Physical properties
0 Soil texture: Texture refers the relative proportion of sand, silt and clay in a soil. Some trees
prefer sandy soil (Thespecia populnea, Casuarina, Anacardium occidentale) whereas some trees grow
well only in clay soils {Acacia nilotica, Prosopisjuliflora).
it) Structure: Structure refers the arrangement ofsoil particles. The arrangement ofsoil particles
determines the porosity ofthe soil thus it influences the water retention which in turn indirectly influences
the vegetation.
Hi) Surface crusting and hardpan: Surface crust refers the hard mass of soil formed on the
surface ofsoils having high silt and clay. Hardpan refers the cemented high density soil layer below the
surface layer due to the accumulation of clay in sub surface. Surface crust reduces the germination
whereas hard pan restricts the root growth.
iv) Soil depth and stoniness: The relative depth is also a factor for distribution of plants.
Different trees needs different soil depth and stoniness,
v)Soil moisture: Soil moisture availability determines the vegetation directly. Humid soil sustains
evergreen vegetation and dry soil supports xerophytes.
B) Chemical properties
i)Soil reaction: Soil reaction refers the acidity or alkalinity ofthe soil. Plant nutrients availability
differs with soil reaction. Similarly,certain plants grow well in acid soil{Xyliaxylocarpa, Dipeterocarpus
spp) whereas certain plants prefer alkaline soils {Tamarix spp, Salvadora persica). In general, most of
the plants yield well under neutral soil conditions.
SILVICULTURE 27
ii) Electrical conductivity: Electrical conductivity ofthe soil indicates the relative soluble salts
presence in the soil. Only saline tolerant species (Salvadora persica, Tamarix spp, Prosopis juliflora)
survive well in saline soils whereas other plants prefers neutral soils.
Hi)Calcareousness: The soil calcareousness determines the electrical conductivity and availability
of plant nutrients. Thus it differentiates the plant distribution in calcareous and non-calcareous soils.
Examples ofinfluence ofsoil properties on plant distribution are:
> Chir pine prefers quartzite rocks whereas blue pine occurs on mica schist
> Deodar prefers alluvium soils
> Cupressus torulosa and Lcora parviflora performs well in lime stone soils
> Sal absent in Deccan trap whereas teak presents in Deccan trap
> Teak prefers lime rich soils whereas sal avoids this
> Teak avoids black cotton as well as laterite soil
> Xylia xylocarpa and Cleistanthus collinus comes well in laterite
> Red Sanders {Pterocarpus santalinus) occurs on quartzite
> Clay soil is suitable for Acacia leucophloea and Prosopis
spicigera
> Prosopisjuliflora, Acacia arabica Tamarix aphylla,
Salvadora oleoides, Salvadora persica,
Sporolobus marginatus tolerates saline conditions
III)Topographic factors
Topography describes the physicalfeatures ofa place. Topographic factors are the factors
pertaining to the configuration ofland surface viz., altitude, slope, aspect and exposure. Any place can
be described by its topographic elements such as configuration of land surface, altitude, slope, aspect
and exposure and are described hereunder.
0 Configuration of land surface denotes the surface configuration or outer shape ofthe land.
It determines the microclimate such as shade,temperature,etc. and thus influences vegetation.
.^11) Altitude of the place refers its elevation from the mean sea level. Altitude influences solar
radiation, temperature, air density and rainfall. With increasing altitude, the air temperature
decreases whereas solar radiation increases. Air density decreases with increasing altitude.
i7i) Slope refers the slanting nature ofsurface i.e., one end ofthe land is at higher elevation and
other end at lower elevation. It influences drainage and runoff caused by rainfall. In general,
steep slope increases the runoff and soil erosion.
IV) Aspect refers the direction towards which slopes faces. In India, northern and eastern slope
of the mountain have relatively low air temperature whereas western and southern slope
experience slightly warm temperature.
V) Exposure refers the relation of site to weather conditions, especially sun and wind. The site
exposed well to sun light has good weathered soil compared to soils found in polar regions
which are less exposed to sun light. Also the exposure determines the soil moisture presence
and its availability. All these factors has direct relation to plant growth.
28 INDIAN FORESTRY
Forest Regeneration
Regeneration is the renewal of forest crops by natural or artificial means. It may be either
natural or artificial regeneration.
SILVICULTURE 29
Regeneration
L
Natural regeneration Artificial regeneration Natural regeneration
supplemented by
artificial regeneration
\T
I) Natural regeneration from seed: Seed is the matured ovule which acts as propagule for
propagation of plants. Natural regeneration from seed depends on various factors vfe., seed production,
dispersal, germination, establishment and other external factors.
a)Seed production: Seed production of a species depends on species, age, size of crown and
climate.
1) Species: The silvicultural and genetic characters influence seed production of a species.
Certain species produces seeds every year(Neem),whereas some species produces biannually
or at an interval of 3-5 years.
2) Age: Plant age has direct correlation with seed production. Young and over matured trees
yield poor quality seeds in meager quantity. The middle aged trees give sufficient and good
quality seeds.
3) Size ofthe crown:The bigger the crown means higher the possibility to get maximum seeds
from the trees. This enhances more entrapment of solar energy which helps photosynthesis.
4) Climate: Climatic element has positive correlation with seed yield. The favourable climate
enhances plant establishment, flowering, and seed production. The adverse factors such as
heavy wind and drought decreases seed production.
30 INDIAN FORESTRY
b) Seed dispersal: Seed dispersal refers to the movement of seed materials from one place to
other through various dispersing agents. The various agents involved in the seed dispersal are wind,
water, gravity, birds, animals and human beings.
1) Seed dispersal by wind : Conifers, Acer, Betula, Alnus, Populus, Salix,Holoptelia
integrifolia, Bombax ceiba.
2) Seed dispersal by water . Mangrove spp., Dalbergia, Teak, Jamun, Trewia
3) Seed dispersal by gravity : Oak, Juckulans regia, Aesculus.
4) Seed dispersal by birds : Prunus, Mulberry, Trema, Diospyrous
5) Seed dispersal by animal : Acacia arabica, Prosopis, Zizyphus
c) Seed germination: The growth process of a mature seed, characterized by the emergence of
a stem and root from it is called as germination. It is the process whereby the seed sprouts and begin to
grow. Germination in plants refers to the process by,which a seed begins to sprout and grow into a
seedling under the right growing conditions.
Germinative capacity is the percentage by number of seeds in a given sample that actually
germinate, irrespective of time. Germinative energy is the percentage by number seeds in a given
sample that have germinatecT up to the time when the rate ofgermination reaches its peak. Plant percent
is the percentage by number of seeds in a sample that develop into seedling at the end of first growing
season. Seedling year is defined as a year in which a given species produces abundant first year
seedling
i)Internalfactors
1) Permeability to water: The impermeability ofseeds to water prevents seed germination and
vice versa.
2) Permeability to oxygen: The impermeability ofseeds to oxygen prevents seed germination
and vice versa.
3) Development of embryo: In some species, germination immediately after harvest is not
common because of immature embryo inside. It takes some time for embryo development
after its maturation. E.g, Fraxinusflorifunda
4) After ripening processes: Certain seeds requires after ripening process for its fullest
development. In these seeds, germination is possible after completion of this period only.
E.g, Juniperus macropoda.
5) Viability: Viability ofthe seed refers the potential capacity ofthe seed to germinate. Generally,
recalcitrant seeds have less viability whereas orthodox seeds have longer seed viability.
6) Size of seed: Bigger seeds generally give higher germination percentage than small seeds. It
is a general thumb rule but this varies with different species,
li)External factors
1. Moisture: Moisture is very essential in order to initiate the primary biochemical reaction
necessary for seed germination. It is also required for softening ofseed coat and leaching out
of unwanted chemicals in it. Excess soil moisture creates anaerobic conditions and dry
condition causes desiccation of seeds and hence both are not suitable for seed germination.
SILVICULTURE 31
2. Air; Soil air is essential for the respiration of living seeds. Hence, optimum soil aeration is
essential for seed germination.
3. Temperature:Low temperature inactivates the living cells whereas high temperature destructs
the enzymes and kill the plants. Hence, high and low temperature doesn’t favour seed
germination.
4. Light: Germination is independent oflight mostly. But after germination,light is essential for
food generation through photosynthesis by young seedlings. There are certain species, which
requires light for its germination. Kg., Albizzia procera, Cassiafistula.
5. Seed bed: In order to get better germination, the seed beds are prepared using well drained
loamy soil in such a way that it could provide optimum air, moisture and physical support for
the germinating seed.
d) Seedling establishment: Seedling establishment refers to the development of new crops
naturally or assisted to a stage when the young regeneration, natural or artificial is considered safe from
normal adverse influences such as frost, drought or weeds and no longer needs special protection or
tending operations other than cleaning, thinning and pruning. Seedling establishment period is the
period that elapses between the initiation ofnatural regeneration and the time when it is considered safe
from adverse influences such as frost, drought or weeds. The establishment ofseedling is influenced by
many factors and are given hereunder.
1. Soil conditions and characteristics: Optimum soil conditions such as good drainage,
moisture, aeration and nutrient status facilitates better establishment of seedlings. Shallow
depth, stoniness and erosion has adverse effect on the seedling establishment.
2. Climatic factors: Climatic elements such as rainfall, light, wind etc., determine the
establishment and developmentofvegetation. Optimum light condition in terms oflight duration
and quality is needed for better establishment of seedlings. Extreme temperature is not ideal
for seedling establishment. Rainfall determines the availability ofmoisture to seedling. Hence
sufficient rainfall with uniform distribution is essential for better establishment.
3. Presence of weeds: A severe weed condition prolongs the seedling establishment ofseedlings
because it reduces the availability of moisture, nutrients, light and space.
4. Grazing and browsing: Grazing causes destruction to established seedlings in an area. In
order to reduce the grazing impact, fencing is inevitable.
5. Burning:Forest fire destroy the seedlings and causes seedling mortality. Protection ofplanted
areas from fire is inevitable for any afforestation programs.
6. Drip: It refers the uprooting of seedlings by rainfall drop from the tree crown/leaves. It is
highly harmful for the establishment ofseedlings.
7. Competition of crop: In mixed forest/plantations, competition by the next crop determines
the establishment of seedling concerned. In general, intense competition decreases the
establishment of seedling. Kg., Clerodendron for Sal and Strobilanthus for Teak.
8. Composition of crop; Mixed crop composition enhances better seedling establishment than
the monocropping.
9. Development of roots: After germination, seedlings develop both roots and shoots. Higher
the development of roots facilitates better establishment of seedlings. This depends on the
genetic characteristics of the species concerned.
32 INDIAN FORESTRY
Regeneration survey
Regeneration survey refers to the surveyfor the assessment ofestablished and unestablished
regeneration generally by sampling procedure. It is done at the time of revision of working plan. The
main objectives ofthis survey are as follows:
1. To compare natural regeneration in any regeneration area
2. To evaluate the effects of operation carried out during working plan period
3. To prepare stock map of any area
Regeneration survey is done with enumeration work or independently. In flat terrain, linear plots
are laid out for sampling. In mountains, topographic units are more suitable than linear plots. The
intensity ofsurvey vary from 2-4 percent
For the surveying purposes,first base line is drawn on the map.The base line is the lengthiest line
which covers the most of the forest by cutting across all physiographic conditions. From this survey
lines are drawn perpendicularly at a spacing of 100 to 200 m. Sample plots of desired size is laid on
either side ofthe survey line. Thereafter data is collected and interpreted statistically.
Established regeneration whose height is e At least one such plant is present which is
2.5 m or more, dbh is 10 cm sufficient to stock the quadrant
Woody shoot which is not established w In the absence of e, at least one such plant is
but which is large and vigorous. This is present which is sufficient to stock the quadrant
expected become established early
Woody shoots which has been browsed Yrt-
Whippy unestablished seedlings whose u+ The absence of e,w,u'*‘ indicates more than one
height is more than SO cm such plant is present which is sufficient to stock
the quadrant
Whippy unestablished seedlings whose u The absence of e,w,u'*’, u indicates at least one
height is more than 50 cm such plant is present which is sufficient to stock
the quadrant
Sub-whippy unestablishedw seedlings s+ The absence of e,w,u‘^,u, s'*" indicates more than
whose height is less than 50 cm one such plant is present which is sufficient to
stock the quadrant
Sub-whippy unestablished seedlings s The absence of e,w, u^ u, s^ s indicates at least
whose height is less than 50 cm one such plant is present which is sufficient to
stock the quadrant
Recruit (current year seedlings) r There are only current year seedlings in the quadrate
Blank 0 No vegetation is present in the quadrate
V-
SILVICULTURE 35
Artificial regeneration
Artificial regeneration is defined as the renewal of a forest crop by sowing, planting or other
artificial means. It is done for reforestation and afforestation works.
1)Choice of species
> The tree species are selected according to the human needs such as protection, production,
aesthetic, and other environmental considerations
> The species should have good timber, economic and other useful values
> The species should be adaptable to the climatic conditions prevailing in the area
> The soil ofthe region is considered while selecting
a species for regeneration
> The species should improve the soil fertility and reduce the soil erosion
> It should be resistant to pest, disease and other adverse factors
> It should be easily established with least cost
> It should be fast growing one
i
/
36 INDIAN FORESTRY
2)Selection of site
The species environmental requirement should be matched to site with respect to climatic,edaphic
and local conditions. The consideration of local floral composition gives a good idea about the site
condition. In addition to this, the approachability of the site, topographical conditions and wildlife
considerations are taken in to account while selecting a site for reforestation or afforestation.
3a)Sowing
Sowing is the process of planting seeds. Simply it refers to the scattering or impregnating the
seed over the groundfor growing plants. However,good quality seeds(clean and healthy seeds)should
be selected to produce a high yield.
Advantages of sowing
1. It consumes less time and costs
2. Roots grow well without any constraints
Disadvantages of sowing
1. It needs huge quantity of seed
2. Birds and animals eat the seeds sown on the surface
3. Seedling mortality is higher than the direct planting
4. Weed problem is higher
5. Rate of growth of seedling^ is very slow and hence seedling establishment period is longer
6. The opening of forest to grazing takes longer time which creates complications with local
peoples
Time of sowing
Time of sowing determines the successful germination and seedling establishment.
Sowingdepth
Deep as well as shallow sowing is not advisable. Deep sowing prevents emergence ofcotyledons
from subsurface to surface. In case ofshallow sowing, seed are liable to be eroded during watering and
are also liable to be eaten by birds. More precisely, seeds can be generally sown into the soil at a depth
of about 2-3 times the size of the seed.
SILVICULTURE 37
3b)Planting
Planting refers to the act or operation of setting the seedlings in the ground for propagation of
plants.
Planting time
Climate plays a deciding role in determining the appropriate planting time. Newly planted trees do
best when exposed to moderate temperature and rainfall. Seedlings need time to root and acclimatize
before the onset of intense heat and dryness of summer or the freezing temperatures of winter. Hence,
early spring or onset of monsoon is the best time for planting. In case of localities having severe winter,
it is better to plant before the snow fall. This also varies with location to location and species to species.
Planting may be of any one of the following kinds:
1) Monsoon planting
2) Pre-monsoon planting
3) Winter planting
4) Spring planting
Planting methods
The most common mistake when planting a tree is digging ofa hole, which is both too deep and
too narrow. In deep pits, roots don’t have access to sufficient oxygen to ensure proper growth. In
case of narrow pits, root structure can’t expand sufficiently to nourish and properly anchor the tree. As
a general rule, trees should be transplanted no deeper than the soil in which they were originally grown. The
width ofthe hole should be at least 3 times the diameter ofthe root ball or container. This facilitates root
establishment. Planning is done either by entire planting or stump planting.
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why the Estaminets sell so much bad beer, and so much vin
mousseux under the generic title of Champagne.
Men want to forget about Home, for they dare not think of it too
much. I have never heard a man speak of Home without a little hush
in his voice, as though he spoke of something sacred that was, and
might not be again.
How often one heard the remark, a kind of apologia: “One must do
something.” Yet, in spite of all they do to forget Home, they are least
happy who have none to forget. Fortunately they are few. It is a
strange provision of Providence that lends zest to the attempt at
oblivion, and induces a frame of mind that yearns through that
attempt for the very things it would fain forget!
After all, it is very much like the school-boy who longs for privacy
where he can blubber unseen, and is at the same time very glad that
he has not got it, and can’t blubber, because his school-fellows
would see him!
A superficial observer might think that the men at the Front are
purely callous, intent on seizing lustily on every possible chance of
doubtful and other pleasures that they can obtain. He may think that
war has brutalised them, numbed their consciences, steeled their
hearts. Or he may class them as of low intellect. In all of which he is
wrong, and has utterly failed to grasp the morale of the man who
lives to fight to-day, never knowing of a certainty if he will see
another dawn.
The soldier knows that he may not dwell in his heart on all he holds
most dear. It “takes the stuffing out of him.” So, according to his
lights, he works very hard indeed to keep up his spirits; to forget. Not
really to forget, only to pretend to himself that he is forgetting.
What good is it for the man whose sweetheart ran away with the
other fellow to think about it? Therefore, Tommy rises above his
thoughts, he puts them away from him—as best he can. And if that
best is not all that people at home might wish it to be, surely some
allowance may be made for what may be called the exigencies of the
military situation!
Perhaps it is the last thing some people would imagine, but
homesickness is a very real disease at the Front, and he may count
himself lucky who escapes it.
“Wot price the Hedgeware Road?” says Bill, ruminatively, as he
drinks his glass of mild—very mild—beer.
And his pal sums up his feelings in the one word “Blimey!”
If you have seen men go into action, not once, but many times; if you
have heard them sing, “Oh my, I don’t want to die; I want to go
Home,” “My Little Grey Home in the West,” and many other similar
ditties, then you will understand.
The very trenches shout it at you, these universal thoughts of Home.
Look at some of the names: Oxford Street, Petticoat Lane, The
Empire, Toronto Avenue, Bayou Italien—even the German trenches
have their Wilhelmstrasse! Each nation in arms is alike in this
respect. Every front-line soldier longs for Home.
A singer whose voice was chiefly remarkable for its sympathetic
quality, gave a concert within sound of the guns. A battalion, just out
of the trenches, went to hear her. She sang several bright little
songs, every one encored uproariously, and finally she sang one of
those beautiful Kashmir love songs which go straight to the depths.
There was a moment’s tense silence when she had finished, and
then the “house” rocked with applause, followed by a greater
trumpeting of handkerchiefed noses than was ever before indulged
in by any regiment en masse. She had awakened memories of
Home.
There are many who rest beneath foreign skies for whom all earthly
homes are done with. They have been gathered to the greatest
Home of all.
ACTION
“Message from Head-quarters, sir.” The runner was breathing hard,
and his eyes were strained and tense-looking. He had not shaved for
days. Fritz’s “thousand guns on the Somme,” that the papers talk of
so glibly, were tuning up for business.
Major Ogilvie took the message, read it, and handed it on to me.
“Zero hour will be at 6.30 p.m. aaa. Our artillery will bombard from
5.30 to 6.20 p.m., slow continuous, and from 6.20 to 6.29 p.m.
hurricane fire aaa. You will give all possible assistance, by means of
rifle and machine-gun fire to ultramarine, and arrange to reinforce,
if necessary, in case of heavy counter-attack aaa. ultramarine will
indicate that objective has been gained by firing two red rockets
simultaneously aaa. Please render situation reports every half-hour
to B.H.Q., a.21.d.1.4½.aaa.”
We looked at each other and smiled a little grimly. To be on the flank
of an attack is rather worse than to attack, for it means sitting tight
while Fritz pounds the life out of you.
“You stop here,” said Ogilvie, “in this glory-hole of ours, while I go up
and see Niven. He will have to put his men in those forward saps. If
you get any messages, deal with them, and make sure that Townley
keeps those bombers of his on both sides of the road. They must
stop there, as long as there are any of them left, or the Hun might try
to turn our flank. So long.”
He set out towards the north, leaving me in “AK” Coy.’s “head-
quarters.” The latter consisted of a little niche, three feet wide, ran
back a foot, and was four feet high, cut in the parapet of the front
line. The runner, Thomson, one of our own company, was curled up
in a little cubby-hole at my feet, and had fallen asleep.
It was lonely in that trench, although there were invisible men, not
thirty feet away, on both sides of me.
The time was 5.25 p.m.
Our guns were still silent. Fritz was warming up more and more. He
was shelling our right most persistently, putting “the odd shell”
around head-quarters.
Punctually to the minute our artillery started in. Salvos of heavies,
way back, shrapnel all along the front line and supports.
A wickedly pretty sight along a thousands yard front: Fritz began to
get irritated, finally to be alarmed. Up went his red lights, one after
the other, as he called on his guns, called, and kept on calling. They
answered the call. Above us the air hissed unceasingly as shells
passed and exploded in rear. He was putting a barrage on our
supports and communication trenches. Then he opened up all along
our trench. High explosive shrapnel, and those thunder-crackling
“woolly bears.” I wondered where Ogilvie was, if he was all right, and
I huddled in close to the damp crumbling earth.
It was 5.50 p.m.
“Per-loph-uff.” An acrid smell of burnt powder, a peculiar, weird
feeling that my head was bursting, and a dreadful realisation that I
was pinned in up to my neck, and could not stir. A small shell,
bursting on graze, had lit in the parapet, just above my head,
exploded, and buried me up to the neck, and the runner also. He
called out, but the din was too great for me to hear what he said. I
struggled until my hands were free, and then with the energy of pure
fear tore at the shattered sand-bags that weighed me down. Finally I
was free to bend over to Thomson.
“Are you hurt?”
“No, sir, but I can’t move. I thought you was dead.”
I clawed him out with feverish haste. The air reeked with smoke, and
the shelling was hellish. Without any cessation shells burst in front
of, above, and behind the trench; one could feel their hot breath on
one’s cheek, and once I heard above the din a cry of agony that
wrung my torn and tattered nerves to a state of anguish.
“Get out of here,” I yelled, and we crawled along the crumbling
trench to the right.
“Hrrumph!” A five-nine landed just beyond us. I stopped a second.
“Stretcher-bearer!” came weakly from a dim niche at my side.
Huddled there was one of my boys. He was wounded in the foot, the
leg, the chest, and very badly in the arm. It took five minutes to put
on a tourniquet, and while it was being done a scout lying by my side
was killed. He cried out once, turned, shivered, and died. I remember
wondering how his soul could go up to Heaven through that awful
concentration of fire and stinging smoke.
It was 6.15 p.m.
There were many wounded, many dead, one of those wonderfully
brave men, a stretcher-bearer, told me, when he came crawling
along, with blood-stained hands, and his little red-cross case. None
of the wounded could be moved then, it was impossible. I got a
message, and read it by the light of the star shells: “Please report at
once if enemy are shelling your area heavily aaa.” The answer was
terse: “Yes aaa.”
Suddenly there was a lull. One of those inexplicable, almost terrifying
lulls that are almost more awesome than the noise preceding them. I
heard a voice ten yards away, coming from a vague, shadowy figure
lying on the ground:
“Are you all right, ‘P.’?” It was Ogilvie.
“Yes. Are you?”
We crawled together, and held a hurried conversation at the top of
our voices, for the bombardment had now started in with violent
intensity from our side, as well as from Fritz’s.
“We’ll have to move to the sap, with Niven ... bring ... runners ... you
... make ... dash for it.”
“How ... ’bout Townley?”
“’S’all right.”
Then we pulled ourselves together and went for it, stumbling along
the trench, over heaped-up mounds of earth, past still forms that
would never move again. On, on, running literally for our lives. At last
we reached the saps. Two platoons were out there, crowded in a
little trench a foot and a half wide, nowhere more than four feet deep.
Some shrapnel burst above it, but it was the old front line, thirty
yards in rear, on which the Germans were concentrating a fire in
which no man could live long.
The runners, Major Ogilvie, Niven, and myself, and that amazing
Sergeant-Major of ours, who would crack a joke with Charon, were
all together in a few yards of trench.
Our fire ceased suddenly. It was zero hour. In defiance of danger
Ogilvie stood up, perfectly erect, and watched what was going on.
Our guns opened again, they had lifted to the enemy supports and
lines of communication.
“They’re over!” we cried all together.
Machine-guns were rattling in a crescendo of sound that was like the
noise of a rapid stream above the roar of a water-wheel. The enemy
sent up rocket upon rocket—three’s, four’s, green and red. Niven, as
plucky a boy as ever lived, watched eagerly. Then a perfect hail of
shells began to fall. One could almost see our old trench change its
form as one glanced at it. It was almost as light as day. Major Ogilvie
was writing reports. One after another he sent out the runners to
head-quarters, those runners every one of whom deserves the
Victoria Cross. Some went never to return.
All at once two red rockets burst away forward, on the right, falling
slowly, slowly to earth.
ultramarine had attained the objective.
It was then 6.42 p.m.
Curious, most curious, to see the strain pass momentarily from
men’s faces. Two runners took the message down. It proved to be
the earliest news received at H.Q. that the objective was reached.
But the bombardment did not cease, did not slacken. It developed
more and more furiously. Niven, one of the very best—the boy was
killed a few weeks after—lay with his body tucked close to the side of
the trench. I lay with my head very close to his, so that we could talk.
Major Ogilvie’s legs were curled up with mine. Every now and then
he sent in a report.
My conversation with Niven was curious. “Have another cigarette?”
“Thanks, Bertie.” “Fritz is real mad to-night.” “He’s got a reason!”
“Thank the Lord it isn’t raining.” “Yes.” Pause. “Did you get any
letters from home?” “Two.... Good thing they can’t see us now!” “Jolly
good thing!” “Whee-ou, that was close!” “So’s that,” as a large lump
of earth fell on his steel hat. Pause. “I must get a new pair of
breeches.” “When?” “Oh, to go on leave with.” “So must I.” We
relapsed into silence, and from sheer fatigue both of us fell asleep
for twenty minutes.
I was awakened by Ogilvie, who kicked me gently. “I have had no
report from Townley or Johnson for nearly two hours”—it was past
eleven. “I want you to go up to the right and see if you can establish
communication with them. Can you make it?” “I’ll try, sir.” Our guns
had quieted down, but Fritz was still pounding as viciously as ever,
and with more heavy stuff than hitherto. My experience in travelling
perhaps a quarter of a mile of trench that night was the most awful
that has befallen me in nearly two years of war at the Front.
The trench was almost empty, for the men had been put in advance
of it, for the most part. In places it was higher than the level of the
ground, where great shells had hurled parapet on parados, leaving a
gaping crater on one side or the other. Fear, a real personal, loathly
fear, ran at my side. Just as I reached the trench an eight-five
exploded on the spot I had crossed a second before. The force of
the explosion threw me on my face, and earth rained down on me. I
knelt, crouching, by the parapet, my breath coming in long gasps.
“Lord, have mercy on my soul.” I rushed a few yards madly, up,
down, over; another pause, while the shells pounded the earth, and
great splinters droned. I dared not move, and I dared not stay. Every
shadow of the trenches loomed over me like the menacing memory
of some past unforgettable misdeed. Looking down I saw a blood-
stained bandage in a pool of blood at my side, and I could smell that
indescribable, fœtid smell of blood, bandages, and death. As I went
round a traverse, speeding like a hunted hare, I stumbled over a
man. He groaned deeply as I fell on him. It was one of my best
N.C.O.’s, mortally wounded. An eternity passed before I could find
his water-bottle. His face was a yellow mask, his teeth chattered
against the lip of the water-bottle, his lips were swollen and dreadful.
He lay gasping. “Can I do anything for you, old man?” With a
tremendous effort he raised his head a little, and opened wide his
glazing eyes. “Write ... sir ... to my ... mother.” Then, his head on my
arm, he died.
On, on, on, the sweat streaming from me, the fear of death at my
heart. I prayed as I had never prayed before.
At last I found Johnson. He gave me his report, and that of Townley,
whom he had seen a few moments before. I went back, another
awful trip, but met Major Ogilvie half-way.
After nine and three-quarter hours, during which they threw all the
ammunition they possessed at us, the German gunners “let up.” And
Ogilvie and I went to sleep, along the trench, too weary to care what
might happen next, to wake at dawn, stiff with cold, chilled to the
bone, to face another day of “glorious war!”
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