Abstract

The staple foods of Malawi are maize, cassava, and millet, with additional crops such as beans, groundnuts, and vegetables. Trees are planted for fruit, shade, or fodder, and by some individuals as a source of fuel and building materials. Because of intense cultivation, there is now a shortage of wood in the Shire Valley, but little reforestation research has been done in these zones for the benefit of small farmers and landholders. The objective of this project is to integrate forestry with agriculture on small farms and thus increase the supply of wood needed by the country's rural communities.

Post-Project Summary

Researchers conducted a total of 93 trials in seven zones to identify suitable tree species for afforestation. Of the 73 experimental sites, 48 were on communal land, 20 on private land, and five on forest reserve land. Those who agreed to use their land for trials participated in the project, and local implements and familiar agricultural techniques were used. Altogether, 26 species and eight provenances of two species representing 13 tree categories were established to assess height, diameter, and survival rates. In each zone, suitable species, afforestation constraints, and appropriate nursery and field techniques were noted. Plot tending involved weeding, fertilization, and seedling protection by hired watchmen or live hedges. Tree damage occurred mostly from snails and termites. Researchers found that the Eucalyptus camaldulensis, and E. tereticornis were best adapted and most productive in the dry zones. As well, Eucalyptus species were best-suited for community level afforestation. Support continued in a second phase.

Recipient Institution(s)