Ameliorative Effect of Shade on Seedling Growth—Evidence from Field Experiment of <i>Vachellia farnesiana</i> (L.) Willd

Abstract

The presence of species diversity in the ecosystem is an important aspect. Simply put, the loss of biodiversity and the formation of ecosystems into monocultures would reduce the productivity of the forest ecosystem than it has abundant diversity. This study conducted with a purpose to get the basic information regarding the effect of shade on the seedling growth. Understanding these relationships in the early years may reveal the important information, which will be helpful for managing and evaluating the silviculture practices. The study was conducted at Dirab Experiments and Agricultural Research Station, South of Riyadh. The experimental plot was managed under the corridor of Eucalyptus camaldulensis stands. Twenty seedlings of Vachellia farnesiana with relative similar height and diameter were planted in each block at a 5 × 5 m 2 spacing in March 2017. Three different treatments were established and relatively categorized into Line 1 (without shade), Line 2 (shade until 09:00 a.m.), and Line 3 (shade until 11:00 a.m.). Eight months after planting, several morphological parameters were monthly assessed from November 2017 until April 2018. Also, the number of fruits was observed following the fruit’s season. Seedling growth variation as an effect of shading occurred between the lines of planting in this experiment. The seedling growth was significantly increased by shading treatment, even though target plant species ( V. farnesiana ) is categorized as intolerant species. Basically, shade helps to generate the favorable local environment for supporting plant growth. This treatment with an appropriate consideration might become an alternative practice for increasing plant productivity.