DefinePK

Abstract

ABSTRACT It is commonly known that factors like grazing and fire are the main causes for slow and unsatisfactory establishment of natural regeneration in many Chir pine forests, especially in those located near highly populated villages. In order to study the effect of proper protection on the growth of Chir pine, a long term experiment was started in the forests of Research and Training Field Station, Shinkiari. This paper presents interim results of the first two year's observations, which give the progress of Chir pine seedling growth. About a10,000 plants per hectare, which are more than 20 cm tall, and sufficient to constitute future stands of desirable densities, are the result of two years of protection from fire and biotic factors. Strong indications could be found for a substantial reduction of the regeneration period which would lead to an increased productivity of these forests.