Effect of Irrigation on Growth of Three Tree Species in Indian Arid Zone

N Bala; G Singh; N K Bohra

doi:10.56093/aaz.v42i1.65530

Authors

N Bala Division of Forest Ecology and Desert Development, Arid Forest Research Institute, Jodhpur 342 005, India
G Singh Division of Forest Ecology and Desert Development, Arid Forest Research Institute, Jodhpur 342 005, India
N K Bohra Division of Forest Ecology and Desert Development, Arid Forest Research Institute, Jodhpur 342 005, India

https://doi.org/10.56093/aaz.v42i1.65530

Abstract

A trial was initiated in July 1995 to study the performance of Acacia
nilotica, Eucalyptus cal7laldulensis and Dalbergia sissoo under two irrigation levels
(WI = 30 mm and W2 = 45 mm) and three frequencies (1] = 0.2, 12 = 0.3 and
13 = 0.4) on a loamy sand soil. Irrigation schedule was maintained on the basis
of IW/CPE ratio (irrigation water/cumulative pan evaporation). Average height of
all three species was best (P<O.OI) in 13W2 treatment. In spite of receiving more
irrigation water, the average height of plants in 13W] was less in comparison to
plants in 13W2 treatment. Same trend was observed in case of collar girth and
incremental growth. Variation in soil pH and electrical conductivity was also significant
among the treatments. Results show that the quantity of water added per irrigation
is more important than the total water applied. 13W2 treatment provided more soil
volume with favorable moisture condition for roots which resulted in better growth.