Selection of site specific Eucalyptus camaldulensis and Eucalyptus tereticornis clones for Ariyalur region (Tamil Nadu) based on its higher Productivity

Abstract

Eucalyptus camaldulensis clones were shortlisted based on individual tree superiority
observed in the multi-location clonal trials for growth attributes like height, girth at breast
height and volume through Index selection method. These clones were planted along with
commercially planted clones in southern peninsular India , seedlings raised from improved
seed orchard source and genetically poor seedlings procured locally during the year 2009. The
above clones and seedlings were planted near Nachiarpettai located near Ariyalur (Tamil
Nadu) to identify the best performing site specific clones in Tamil Nadu. It falls in the range
of 11° 07’45.91’’N latitude to 79°13’15.94’’E longitude. The growth parameters like height, girth
at breast height and its volume were recorded up to 3 years. The results confirm that the
clones are best selected and tested in environments similar to those where they will be
deployed. Ranking of the 33 commonly planted clones and two seed lots showed that Clone
C31, C9, C196 and C17 were consistently superior in their growth performance when
compared to all other clones, seed lots and some of the commercially cultivated clones with
respect to height, girth and volume although the sequence changed for each characters. Based
on the study it was concluded that the clones viz., Clone C31, C9, C17 and C196 are best suitable for the area in and around Nachiarpettai (Ariyalur) having the same soil property
(Sandy loam) and climatic conditions.