ESTABLISHMENT OF TREE ASSOCIATION WITH CAOBA AND RAMON IN AN ABANDONED QUARRY IN YUCATAN, MEXICO

Abstract

The influence of the association trees on the height and diameter growth  of mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla King) and ramón (Brosimum alicastrum Sw.) plantations during the establishment period in an quarry near the city of Merida, Yucatan, Mexico, was evaluated. Associated trees to mahogany were  tamarindo (Tamarindus indica L.) and achiote (Bixa orellana L.). Associated trees to ramón were huaxin (Leucaena leucocephala (Lam) de Wit.) and pixoy (Guazuma ulmifolia Lam.). Tree association effects on the growth in height and diameter of mahogany and ramón were analyzed. The production of fruits and forage in the associated tree species was determined. There were no significant differences in mahogany and ramón diameter and height growth (p> 0.05) among treatments. To associate the ramón with other species of fast growth like huaxin and pixoy pruning was repeatedly conducted on this species to obtain the light levels required for ramón. The forage production of haxin and pixoy was 2 t dry matter ha-1 y-1 and there were not significant differences (p>0.05). The time required to get productive age in the species like ramon and mahogany offer opportunities to use the interspaces during growth period.