10. SEEDS

10.3 Selection of mother trees

Genetic factors combined with environmental factors determine the characteristics of the young tree as it grows. Seeds from straight and vigorous trees will most likely produce straight and vigorous trees, while twisted or stunted trees may produce the same deformities. Thus the selection of good mother trees is important.

Selection of mother trees should be related to the intended use of the trees to be grown. Shrubs or trees that produce particularly dense or thorny branches are best for fencing, whereas fast-growing and straight trees are best for poles and timber. Trees that produce palatable, dense foliage and/or pods are best for fodder.

If seeds are collected on a large scale, it is important to collect them from several trees in order to provide genetic variation in the new generation of trees. For small-scale collection for local use this is less important, however.

Figure 10.1 Various types of mother tree