Influence of stump diameter thickness and different nutrient application on biomass attributes in Tectona grandis Linn F

Tectona grandis (Teak) is one of the most valuable timber species, known for its durability, strength, and resistance to pests. Successful establishment of teak plantations depends on optimizing seedling growth, which is influenced by stump thickness and nutrient management. This study investigates the impact of stump diameter and different nutrient applications on biomass attributes in Tectona grandis. Study was conducted at the Shivaram Karantha Forest Nursery in Karnataka, India. The experiment followed a Two-Factor Randomized Block Design with 13 treatments and three replications. The first factor was stump thickness (D1: 0.9 cm) and the second factor included ten different nutrient treatments ranging from control (T1) to integrated organic and inorganic amendments (T10). Results indicate that larger stumps (D3) exhibited superior biomass production, with significantly higher fresh and dry weights compared to smaller stumps (D1, D2). Among nutrient treatments, T10 (0.25 g N: 0.5 g P: 0.25 g K + 7.5 g vermicompost + 2.5 g VAM + 2.5 g PSB) yielded the highest biomass accumulation, enhancing root and shoot growth. Interaction effects showed that the combination of larger stump sizes and T10 treatment produced the best growth performance. The improved biomass accumulation is attributed to better nutrient availability, enhanced root establishment, and mycorrhizal symbiosis, which facilitated nutrient uptake, particularly phosphorus. These findings highlight the importance of selecting larger stumps and integrating organic and microbial amendments to maximize seedling vigor and plantation success. Future research should assess long-term field performance and explore additional biofertilizers combinations to further optimize teak growth. This study contributes valuable insights for sustainable nursery management and improved teak reforestation strategies.