SEED BALL TECHNIQUE FOR ENHANCING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF SUBABUL (<em>LEUCAENA LEUCOCEPHALA</em>) UNDER VARIED HABITATS

Abstract

Deforestation and forest degradation are the biggest threats to our forests. Afforestation is one way to sustain life and combat global warming. Unfortunately, high cost and hazard factors in handling of tree saplings and initial care after planting affect the success rate of afforestation projects. Seed ball technique is effective for propagating plants from seeds because the seeds are protected from external stress and predation. The present experiment investigated the applicability of this technique in afforestation programmes at three different locations for the establishment of subabul (Leucaena leucocephala), a tree fodder, which is a major source of grazing for forest animals. Seed balls was prepared using red soil and vermicompost at a ratio of 2:1 and mixed with 230–250 mL of water per kg of medium. Seed balls protected the seeds from biotic and abiotic stresses and the vermicompost provided nutrients and growth hormones which greatly improved the establishment and survival rate of subabul. Seed ball technique is recommended for forest regeneration and re-greening the earth surface.