Trees for drylands.

Abstract

This book was commissioned by Swiss Development Cooperation (SDC) and is the result of a collaborative effort between the editor, who has long forestry experience in the arid and semiarid zones of South Asia and Africa, and fourteen Indian foresters and forestry scientists. The first 41 pp. of the book are introductory. The introduction itself covers the characteristics of arid and semiarid tracts, environmental and socio-political issues, the commons, forest law in India, the tree 'patta', natural forests and their degradation and rehabilitation, and managed plantations. Other introductory sections cover selection of species for planting, tree propagation methods, nursery methods and practices, planting methods, water management in dry areas, and maintenance and after-care. The main part of the book presents species profiles for 73 tree species suitable for use in arid and semiarid areas. These include both published information and information from practical collective experience. The information is presented under the following headings: scientific and common names; description and key features; distribution, site requirements and limitations; propagation and management; agroforestry applications; uses and productivity; and seed sources. Each profile includes a line drawing of the tree and its flowers, fruits and foliage. The focus is on India, but the information is relevant to many other countries with similar environmental conditions. An index of local/common names in various Indian languages is included at the end of the book.