Evaluating carbon sequestration potential of farm-grown teak and model development across three agroclimatic zones of Tamil Nadu, India

Teak ( Tectona grandis Linn. f), a widely cultivated tropical hardwood, holds considerable promise in carbon sequestration due to its high biomass productivity and wood density. This study evaluates the growth performance and carbon sequestration potential of farm-grown teak across three agroclimatic zones viz., High Rainfall Zone (HRZ), Southern Zone (SZ) and Cauvery Delta Zone (CDZ) of Tamil Nadu, India. Comprehensive field measurements were perpetuated in both block and boundary plantations across four age classes (0–5, 5–10, 10–15, and 15–20 years) to assess growth biometry and estimate total carbon (TC) and carbon dioxide equivalent (Tt CO₂). The results demonstrated significantly higher growth and carbon accumulation in HRZ, with boundary plantations outperforming block plantations across all zones, likely due to reduced intra-specific competition and enhanced edge effects. Maximum TC values in boundary plantations reached 0.4310 MT tree⁻¹ with corresponding Tt CO₂ value of 1.5817 MT tree⁻¹ in the HRZ for the 15–20-year age class. Multiple linear regression models were developed to predict total carbon stock based on tree diameter at breast height, tree height, and age. Model validation using residual plot analysis and chi-square tests confirmed high predictive accuracy with deviations ranging from 1 to 4%. The robust, zone-specific carbon yield models developed offer a practical tool for carbon accounting and monetization in farm forestry systems. These findings underscore the role of scientifically managed teak plantations in contributing to climate mitigation through carbon storage, while offering smallholder farmers opportunities for carbon revenue through compliance and voluntary market participation. • Comprehensive field evaluation was carried out for estimating teak growth and carbon sequestration potential across three agroclimatic zones in Tamil Nadu, India. • Boundary plantations of teak showed higher biomass production and carbon storage than block plantations in all zones. • High Rainfall Zone boundary plantations achieved the maximum carbon stock (0.431 MT tree −1 ; 1.58 MT CO₂ equivalent) in the 15–20-year age class. • Developed and validated multiple linear regression models for predicting carbon stock using tree age, height and diameter, with high accuracy (1–4% deviation). • Study provides practical tool for carbon accounting and monetization, supporting policy and market participation for climate mitigation.