The growth of mahogany seedlings (Swietenia macrophylla King.) in various planting media and shade intensity

Abstract

Swietenia macrophylla has potential in the economic, health and environmental sectors; so, this tree is one of the species used for forest rehabilitation. The growth of S. macrophylla is influenced by environmental factors, including the quality of the growing medium and shade intensity. This study aimed to obtain the right planting medium and shade for the growth of S. macrophylla seedlings. This research was conducted using a split-plot design with randomized groups. The main plot was shade using paranet which consists of 2 levels, while the subplot was the planting medium which consists of 5 levels. The results showed that the interaction of mineral soil medium treatment and without shade resulted in the highest seedlings height and total fresh weight in mahogany seedlings. The quality index of mahogany seedlings (SQI) is influenced by no-shade treatment