9. TREE PROPAGATION METHOD

9.8  Tree planting in ASAL areas

As noted earlier, tree planting in ASAL areas should be avoided as much as possible due to the high investment required for raising and transporting seedlings, the huge areas that may be involved and the high risk of failure due to erratic rainfall. Always consider whether natural regeneration or direct seeding of trees and shrubs is possible before starting major tree-planting activities.

It is, however, sometimes necessary to plant trees in ASAL areas, e.g. fruit trees near houses or along streams or shade trees around homesteads or at meeting places. Water-harvesting techniques, if effectively and correctly applied, can significantly reduce the risk and improve seedling performance in these areas. Refer to Soil and Water Conservation in ASAL, Field Manual Volume 3: Agroforestry.

Figure 9.16 Semi-circular micro-catchments allow Acacia tortilis to grow and mature more quickly in dry areas