Woody perennials on and as bunds in Vertisols

Abstract

I .- An experiment was conducted during 1991-96 to identify suitable tree species to plant on farm bund and also to screen tree species for live bund on Vertisols. Among 7 tree species planted on farm bund, the maximum plant height was found with subabul (Leucaena leucocephala) (7.60 m), followed by siris (Albizzia lebbeck Benth.) (7.01 m) and the least in anjan (Hardwickia binata Roxb.) (4.20 m). The grain yield of arable crop, viz. sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] was highest (1,186 kglha) when it was grown with Hardwickia binata and minimum when it was grown with Leucaena leucocephala (425 kglha). In another study (1992-95).screening of 6 different tree species for live bund was taken up. Among the different tree species, the maximum green-biomass yield was recorded in Gliricidia maculata (H.B. & K.) Steud. (45.64 qlha) and the minimum in Albizzia amara Boiv. (9.69 qlha). The grain yield of arable crop, viz. safflower (Cartharmus tinctorius L.), was highest when safflower was grown with Gliricidia as /. live bund (7.66 qlha) and the lowest with Leucaena leucocephala (3.87 qlha).