Root growth characteristics of some exotic and indigenous tree species in the Nigerian Savanna
Root growth characteristics of some exotic and indigenous tree species in the Nigerian Savanna
M. A. Ogigirigi and A. B. I. Igboanugo
ABSTRACT
Roots of exotic and native tree species were exposed by
digging trenches adjacent to tree stands in plantation
at four vegetative zones of varying dryness and soil
types (Afaka, Miango and Nimbia ) in Nigeria. Root size
and distribution were measured and compared at three
determined depths along the soil profiles. Although all
the soil types have a layer of hard iron crust
(plinthite layer) with in a depth of 40-60 cm in the
soil the roots of the exotics were able to penetrate
beyond the plinths. Among the exotic, Eucalypts proved
best at penetrating the plinths, having comparatively
larger sized and more numerous roots that were well
distributed along the soil profile. Closely following
the eucalypt were the pines. Roots of all trees studied
at Nimbia grew better than those at other locations.
This was attributed to the pisolitic nature of the
Nimbia plinths which can go soft when wet but hard when
dry as opposed to the continuously hard plinth types at
the other localities. The relationships between root
penetration tree growths, and the tree abilities to
harness soil water during the dry season at different
localities are discussed.
To share on other social networks, click on any share button. What are these?
September 1985
Vol. 35, Iss. 3
