Effect of Provenance Variations on the Growth and Development of Terminalia ivorensis (A Chev)

Abstract

Indigenous tree species like Terminalia ivorensis has multiple uses; from timber products to medicinal condiments for treating different ailments. This species is self-incompatible. Thus, habitat protection is a key to its survival and sustenance. This study evaluated the effect of provenance variations on the growth and development of T. ivorensis. Three provenances of T. ivorensis were selected; FRIN Arboretum, Onigambari Forest Reserve and J1 Forest Reserve. Thirty (30) seedlings of T. ivorensis were selected and marked at each provenance for assessment of growth parameters for a period of twelve weeks. The growth parameters included: seedling height, collar diameter, leaf count and leaf area. Also, soil samples were collected from each provenance to test for nutrient composition. Results showed that J1 Forest Reserve had best performance across the growth parameters assessed with 10.4 cm plant height, 2.02 mm collar diameter, 11 leaves count and 20.5 cm2 leaf area respectively. This growth parameter result differs significantly from the other two provenances. This was also attributed to the nutrient offered by J1 Forest Reserve with 1.18% and 2.20% of organic carbon and organic matter in the soil respectively. Also, the available phosphorus which is involved in photosynthesis, respiration, energy storage and transfer, cell division and enlargement as well as promotion of root formation was about 15.7 mg/kg in the soil and is considered high because it is higher than the critical level of 8.50mg/kg. J1 Forest Reserve is recommended as the best provenance for raising T. ivorensis amongst assessed natural habitats.