Biomass yield of Eucalyptus grandis Hill ex. Maiden under different single and double row planting arrangements

Abstract

The objective of this work was to analyze the effect of single and double planting spacing on the basal area, stem wood and bark volume per hectare, stem basic density and above-ground biomass of Eucalyptus grandis Hill ex Maiden (G-21 clone) managed under the short rotation coppice system. Four planting spacings were considered: 3.0 m x 1.0 m x 2.0 m (double row), 3.0 m x 1.0 m (single row), 3.0 m x 1.0 m x 1.0 m (double row) and 3.0 m x 0.5 m (single row), which were evaluated at 12 months and at 24 months after planting. Main significant differences were found at 12 months after planting for both factors spacing and age. Basal area increased as planting densification, although the volume did not show the same trend at 24 months after planting. Basic density increased as age only at single rows. In the study of the biomass allocation in the different tree compartments, it was verified a higher proportion of stem biomass on older treatments and denser spacings. One of the highest forest productions (65 Mg ha^-1) was found in the 3 m x 1 m planting spacing at 24 months of age.

Keywords:
Planting density; Biomass; Basal area; Energy forests