Özet:

The study assessed the growth and yield characteristics of teak (Tectona grandis Linn. F.) at the University of Ilorin, North Central Nigeria. Data were collected from five different age series (5–9 years) using a stratified random sampling technique. The diameter at base, middle, and top (merchantable height); diameter at breast height (DBH); and total height of trees of >5 cm DBH were measured in 30 temporary sample plots of 25×25 m2. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics, and relationships among growth and yield variables were assessed using correlation analysis. Results revealed a stand density of 672, 832, 656, 592, and 688 trees/ha for the 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9-year age series, respectively. A larger proportion of trees in the study area was found in the lower and middle diameter (5.1–10.0 cm and 10.1–15.0 cm) and height classes (<5.0 m and 5.1–10.0 m). The average diameter increments were 1.08, 0.88, 0.84, 1.16, and 1.10 cm/year and the mean volumes were 19.23, 24.97, 14.82, 154.23, and 30.31 m3/ha for the 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9-year age series, respectively. There were positive correlations among tree growth characteristics such as DBH, height, and volume accumulation across the age series. Overall, the growth and yield characteristics decreased across the age series on the teak plantation, indicating the need for improved management activities (such as beating up, thinning, pruning, and weeding operations) in the study area.

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