Plus and Mother Trees in Mt. Banahaw de Lucban, Quezon, Philippines

Abstract

The selection of forest trees as planting materials in reforestation projects or plantation development could be based on the existing needs of the wood-based industry, and in support of the National Greening Program. It is anchored on natural adaptation to ensure high survival rates considering suitability to prevailing site conditions; purpose for planting; availability of planting stocks; and commercial value. Thus, selection and mapping of plus and mother trees at the northeastern slope of Mt. Banahaw de Lucban, Philippines were conducted to determine potential seed production areas as sources of quality planting materials. Information materials were developed for dissemination. Twenty-two species with 65 individuals representing families of Annonaceae, Fabaceae, Fagaceae, Clusiaceae, Meliaceae, Myrtaceae, Podocarpaceae, Sapindaceae, Sapotaceae, Symplocaceae, Theaceae and Tiliaceae showed vigorous growth and superiority in height and diameter compared with the surrounding trees. Phenotypic characteristics are influenced by temperature, rainfall, soil and elevation. Highest population of plus trees was distributed in moderate to steep slope. Favorable soils for growth were found at lower elevations. Species diversity of 2.00 showed moderately diverse plus trees at 700 masl and 800 masl. However, 11 species were found threatened as listed on DENR Administrative Order (DAO) No. 11, s. 2017 and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).