Growth of Cedrela odorata and incidence of Hypsipyla grandetta as affected by nutrient management

Abstract

Cedrela odorata is one of the most important native forest species in México; however, plantation projects with this species have been limited because of the irruption of the meliaceae shoot borer. The search for new alternatives to either eradicate or control the pest continues being important. Hence, suitability of nutrient management through fertilization is analyzed as a method to overcome this limitation. Therefore, the effects of the application of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium on both the growth of C. odorata and the incidence of H. grandella were evaluated in a Spanish cedar forest plantation located in Papantla Veracruz, Mexico. Periodic measurements of height and diameter growth, and the other variables related to pest incidence, were made over a year. There were positive responses on the growth with nitrogen application. A pest attack reduction was shown with potassium supply; nevertheless, these were limited because of different conditions of the plantation. Despite of this, nutrient management through fertilization shows potential as an H. grandella control method in C. odorata forest plantations.