Abstract:
The performance of teak ( Tectona grandis ) planted at four square spacings ( 1 .5, 2.0, 2.5
and 3.0 m) at Longuza, Tanga, in Tanzania was assessed. The variables studied were
diameter at breast height (dbh) , total height and height to the first live branch, survival,
number of branches, basal area and volume production at ages 1, 3, 7 and 9 y, and
basic density and some strength properties at the age of 1 4 y. Results showed that
dbh, number of branches, total height, basal area, basic density and some strength
properties were significantly affected by spacing (p = 0.05). The diameter at breast
height and number of branches increased with increasing spacing, while basal area
decreased. All other variables were not significantly affected by spacing. A spacing of
3.0 m resulted in large diameter trees and later thinnings, with less total volume per
hectare. The current spacing of 2 m resulted in higher volume per hectare of small
sized trees which could be improved by thinning. It is recommended to continue with
this spacing and the current thinning schedule until information on the economic
implications of alternative regimes is available.
