Planting, Regeneration, Aftercare and Maintenance - Afforestation, Reforestation and Forest Restoration in Arid and Semi-arid Tropics - page 104

Chapter 6
Planting, Regeneration, Aftercare
and Maintenance

Abstract Planting of nursery-raised seedlings is an indispensable part of afforesta-
tion work in arid and semiarid areas. Low level of moisture and adverse climatic
factors necessitate that the tender seedlings be cared for and watered, at least for a
period till their root system is of sufficient size to gather moisture from arid soils.
The quality of planting work is of vital importance. Poor planting work will not only
render all the work that has gone in preparation of the site infructuous, but will also
result in wasting of seedlings. Correct timing, proper technique, and appropriate
follow-up operations are essential ingredients of a successful planting strategy. Con-
stant watch and care of a plantation is what ultimately decides its fate. Being a living
thing, it cannot be left to itself. If any kind of damage is done to it, an irrecoverable
loss may be incurred. It will never be possible to make good that loss, since growth of
plants is a time-dependent process—time once lost will never be regained. In short,
care and maintenance of plants cannot be overemphasised.

6.1 Time and Season for Planting

The appropriate time for planting is just before or just after the first rains of the
season—for the obvious reason that water is a scarce commodity in arid and semiarid
areas, and maximum advantage of rains should be taken. If it is possible to arrange
for watering of plants at the time of planting (about 25 l of water per plant) from
a source that is close to the planting site and economical, it is best to plant before
the estimated time of the first rains. Advance planting will make full use of the
forthcoming rains, and will give a head start to the plants in attaining growth during
the entire rainy season.
However, if water is not conveniently and economically available, planting should
be carried out during and immediately after the first rains. If soils are light having
good drainage, planting should be done concurrently with the rains. In case of heavy
soils, however, a day or two should be allowed to pass before starting planting
work. Once started, planting should be carried out on a war-footing and should be
completed within the least possible time.
It is possible to have two seasons of planting in a year when the temperature
is moderate (e.g. July-August and February in northern hemisphere). The second
season is to be availed of only if it is possible to irrigate the plants at least once
every month until the onset of the next rainy season. Plants of this season will have