Natural root suckering of Sclerocarya birrea (A. Rich.) Hochst. in Togo

Abstract

Knowing how well fruit species root sucker naturally, can be used to start development programs, based on methods to multiply vegetatively, which do not cost much, especially in zones of adverse pedoclimatic and socioeconomic conditions. This study was carried out on the densities of natural root suckers of S. birrea in three areas (reserved forests, mature and new fallows), as well as on particular characteristics of these root suckers. This up to date study shows that the amount of root suckers in the mature fallows (34.28 ± 22.28 root suckers / ha) is significantly superior (p = 0.005) to those of the new fallows (12.36 ± 7.98 root suckers / ha). 41.1% of mature S. birrea produces some, and more than 70 % of the mature ones, which root sucker, have 1 to 3 suckers. Half of the root suckers are carried by roots with a diameter between 2 and 4 cm. Under the crown of the mother plants, we can count 41 % of the root suckers, whereas the rest grow in the full light. Less than 17 % escaped by creating adventitious roots. These root suckers ability could be used for woodland management.