Treatments on the Survival of Pinus canariensis Chr. Sm. Ex DC in Buch Planted Seedlings in Arid Zones (Herbivore Protectors-Fertilizers-Mulch- Hydrogels)

ABSTRACT

Long periods of deforestation in the southern part of Tenerife Island have led to a point-of-no-return for recovery of vegetation, which requires human intervention. Good plantation techniques could help regenerate woody plants.

A study was designed to provide information about the best plantation techniques for Pinus canariensis in the southern part of Tenerife, at the old pine forest location (precipitation <250mm and 12ºC mean annual temperature). Two study sites were selected (Fasnia and Arico); in each site two plots of 5 ha were established. In total, 4 plots were located and in each plot, 32 subplots of 16 x 16 m were marked out. In each subplot, 16 Pinus canariensis seedlings (1 year old) were planted and subjected to different combinations of fertilizers, chemical herbivore preventers, mechanical herbivore preventers (using stone castle, hay protectors and plastic protectors), hydrogels and mulch, giving a total of 32 subplot combinations. I monitored the rate of pine seedling survival over three years. The results indicated that fertilization had a negative effect on survivorship of the pine seedlings. Stone castle protectors and hydrogels were also negatively associated with seedling survival. By contrast, plastic protectors showed the highest efficiency in aiding seedling survivorship, and they also represent the quickest option in terms of how long it takes to employ the device.

Given the soil and weather conditions of the study area, I would not recommend fertilization or hydrogels. Plastic protectors are recommended as herbivore protection, because they are easy to set up and offer better results.

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