Enrichment Planting of Big-Leaf Mahogany and Spanish Cedar in Quintana Roo, México

Abstract

Enrichment planting, a tool for regenerating tropical forests, has been used but not evaluated for many years in community forests in Quintana Roo, Mexico. This study was designed to determine if enrichment planting would assure regeneration of big-leaf mahogany and Spanish cedar in these forests. Survival and growth of seedlings of both species planted in two communities were evaluated. Seedlings had been planted from 1986 to 1993 along main and log-hauling roads, in log landings, and in narrow strips opened under forest canopies. Survival was 18%; it varied considerably from year to year but was similar for both species and among the four types of areas planted. Available light appeared to be the principal limiting factor for survival in the enrichment plantings.