Researcher: Guilherme de Castro Andrade
Current affiliation: Embrapa Floresta, Colombo, P.R., Brasil
Collaborators:
Duration: 2009-2016
Funding: Embrapa Floresta
Considering that the majority of tree plantations in SE Brazil are located in sites of low inherent productivity, losses of nutrients associated with the removal of timber and soil erosion after clear-felling may negatively impact the sustainability of the production system. Shortened rotation periods to meet increased demands and mechanical harvesting techniques further contribute to soil nutrient impoverishment, compaction and reduced water retention capacity. This study aims to evaluate the nutrient stocks in above-ground tree biomass, the litter layer, and the soil compartment as well as the soil physical and biological characteristics in three differently aged eucalypt plantations (3, 5, and 7 years old) before and after harvesting. In addition, initial tree growth in new plantations will be monitored and relations sought with actual site conditions, with the objective of identifying suitable indicators that may help to maintain site productivity during future rotations.