Pruning and fertilization in young Pinus greggii plantations established at Durango, Mexico

Resumen

Objective: To evaluate the effects of pruning and fertilization on the growth of Pinus greggii plantations
established at Durango state, Mexico.
Design/methodology/approach: In a plantation (Durango), pruning was applied in three intensities (0, 50,
and 75%) in a randomized complete block design. Four years later, the basal diameter (Db), normal diameter
(ND), total plant height (PH), and stem height (SH) were evaluated. In another plantation (La Soledad), two
pruning levels (0 and 50%) and foliar fertilization (with and without application) were applied in a completely
randomized factorial design. Seven months later, Db, PH, and crown diameter (CD) were assessed. The
analysis of their variance and means comparison test (Tukey, 0.05) were performed.
Results: In Durango, pruning diminished the Db and PH, but increased the SH (p0.01). In La Soledad,
pruning also affected growth. The Db, PH, and CD were lower (p0.01) when trees were pruned. Fertilization
affected the PH (p0.05) and CD (p0.01) as well. The PH and the CD for both pruned and unpruned trees
increased with fertilization.
Limitations/implications: Pruning at 50 and 75% intensities are not suitable for P. greggii because it reduces
their growth.
Findings/conclusions: Fertilization favors the growth of P. greggii planted on low fertility soils for both pruned
and unpruned trees, but the pruning and fertilization interaction should be examined in detail for a longer
period