Allometry and growth of planted versus coppice stands of four fast-growing tropical tree species

Abstract

Coppice stands of fast-growing tropical trees may differ in productivity and biomass allocation compared with original planted stands, due to changes in stand dynamics and competition. To assess if coppice shoots differed from original planted stems in allometry, growth rate, or mean biomass increment, we harvested planted stands of Acacia auriculiformis, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Gliricidia sepium, and Leucaena diversifolia at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months of age. Regrowth following harvest of the planted stands provided the coppice treatment, harvested at 6, 12, and 18 months. Allometry of woody biomass and leaf are did not differ between planted and coppice treatments in any of the four species. Coppice stands had a higher population density than original planted stands, due to production of multiple stems per stump following cutting. Competition began sooner in coppice stands, resulting in smaller shoots than in planted stands of the same age. Mean monthly increment peaked earlier in coppice than in planted stands, but maximum mean monthly increment and leaf area index at culmination were not consistently higher in either treatment. Management of coppice stands for maximum biomass production would require earlier harvesting of smaller stems, thereby having a greater proportion of leaf biomass. If larger stems or lower leaf biomass ratios are preferred, coppice stands should be thinned to the same population densities as planted stands.