Theoretical and Applied Forestry (TAFOR) is a peer reviewed international journal, which publish two times in a year (April and October). Original research article and review papers on all aspects of forestry, Biology, Agriculture in English or Turkish are accepted in the TAFOR published by online. The Manuscripts are reviewed by the reviewers, and the review process is completed in two- three months. Manuscripts must be submitted on the understanding that they have not been published elsewhere and are not currently under consideration by another journal. There is no any article submission or processing charges in the journal. e-ISSN: 2791-7363 Editor in Chief: Prof. Dr. Nebi BİLİR
Effects of IBA concentrations on the rooting and growth of Cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus L.) cuttings
This study was conducted to investigate the effects of different indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) concentrations on the rooting and subsequent sapling growth performance of cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus L.) cuttings under greenhouse and outdoor conditions. The cuttings were treated with four different hormone concentrations (0, 1000, 5000, and 8000 ppm IBA), and parameters including rooting success, root length, root collar diameter, and sapling height were evaluated. ANOVA and Duncan’s multiple range test were applied at a 5 % significance level for statistical analysis of the data. The results indicated that hormone concentration had a statistically significant effect on root length (p=0.007), with the highest mean value obtained from the 1000 ppm treatment (29.81 cm), which was approximately 27 % higher than the control group. No significant difference was observed among groups in terms of root number (p>0.05). The highest root collar diameter was achieved with the 1000 ppm IBA treatment (6.77 mm), representing a 38 % increase compared to other treatments. Measurements taken on June 19, 2023, showed that hormone concentration had significant effects on root collar diameter and sapling height, while this effect was found to diminish by December 8, 2023. These findings demonstrate that IBA applications enhance the early rooting and adaptation success of cherry laurel cuttings, making them an important tool for sustainable and high-quality sapling production.
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The importance of Arbutus andrachne L. (Strawberry Tree) in terms of rehabilitation and restoration potential and climate change resilience
This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the ecological, silvicultural, and landscape-related functions of Arbutus andrachne L., a characteristic species of the Mediterranean flora. In the context of climate change, particular emphasis is placed on its drought and heat tolerance, post-fire regeneration capacity, and carbon sequestration potential attributes that underscore its suitability for ecological restoration and rehabilitation efforts. Furthermore, the species’ ecosystem services including its ornamental value in landscape architecture, its role in erosion control, and its contribution to water retention are highlighted. Owing to these features, A. andrachne is positioned as a strategic species not only for the recovery of degraded natural habitats but also for enhancing recreational and aesthetic functions in urban green spaces. This review also draws attention to the necessity of advancing propagation techniques and conducting further research focused on climate resilience and adaptive management of this species.
An evaluation of the Oriental sweetgum (Liquiambar orientalis Mill.) and its balsam
The Oriental sweetgum (Liquidambar orientalis), a member of the Altingiaceae family, occurs naturally only in the southwestern region of Türkiye. The species L. orientalis has two varieties: var. orientalis and var. integriloba Fiori, and it is an endemic species. Being both a relict and endemic species, the Oriental sweetgum (L. orientalis Mill.) is listed as “Endangered” in the IUCN Red List. It is also known locally as the “Günlük Tree.” In this review, which provides a holistic perspective on the ecosystem of sweetgum forests formed by this species, the sweetgum balsam that naturally exudes from wounds made on the tree trunk is examined. This valuable resin is known to possess antibacterial, antimicrobial, antitumor, and antioxidant properties, as well as significant importance in the perfumery and cosmetics industries due to its fixative qualities. In traditional folk medicine, it has been used in the treatment of gastric and skin diseases. This study evaluates scientific research conducted on various applications of sweetgum balsam. In this study, scientific research conducted on various uses of sweetgum balsam was examined in order to reveal the ecological and economic importance of the Oriental sweetgum and to provide a scientific contribution to the conservation and sustainable utilization of the species.
Impact of aspect on growth performances in afforestation of Taurus cedar (Cedrus libani A. Rich.)
In this study, aspectual impact of on growth performances in afforestation of Taurus cedar (Cedrus libani A. Rich.) was investigated based on tree height, diameter at base and diameter at breast height in 25-years afforestation established in Isparta region of the species to contribute and to discuss for afforestation and other forestry practices. 300 m2 area was sampled from each north, south, east and west aspects. Averages of tree height, diameter at base (D0) and diameter at breast height (d1.30) were 6.4 m, 17.4 cm and 13.2 cm, respectively, while east aspect had the highest performances for tree height (7.6 m) and diameter at breast height (14.7 cm), and north aspect for diameter at base (19.6 cm). They were the lowest for tree height in south for tree height (5.5 m) and in west aspect for diameters [14.3 cm (D0) and 11.0 cm (d1.30)]. Aspects showed significant (p<0.05) differences for all the characteristics by analysis of variance results. Positive and significant (p<0.05) relations among the characteristics according to results of correlation analysis in all aspects.
Growth and fruit characteristics in Rosa canina L.
This study was conducted to determine the morphological and pomological variation within natural populations of Rosa canina L. in the Sarıveliler district of Karaman Province, Turkey. A total of 150 randomly selected individuals were evaluated for plant height (PH), crown diameter (CD), fruit length (FL), fruit width (FWi), and fruit weight (FWe). The collected data were analyzed using analysis of variance and phenotypic correlation analysis. The results revealed significant differences both among plants and within individuals in terms of fruit characteristics. Plant height (207.41 cm) and crown diameter (130.62 cm) exhibited high coefficients of variation (39.6% and 42.6%, respectively), while fruit weight showed 26.7% variation. Strong positive correlations were observed between flower length and fruit width (r = 0.750) as well as fruit weight (r = 0.878). In addition, significant correlations were identified between plant height and flower length (r = 0.375), and between plant height and fruit weight (r = 0.256). These findings demonstrate strong relationships between morphological and pomological traits in R. canina, and indicate substantial phenotypic diversity within natural populations. The results provide important insights for the conservation of the species as a genetic resource and its potential use in agricultural applications.
Growth performance in afforestations of Taurus cedar, Anatolian black pine and Crimean juniper
This study was carried out in 15-years mix afforestations of Taurus cedar (Cedrus libani A. Rich.), Anatolian black pine [Pinus nigra Arnold. subsp. pallasiana (Lamb.) Holmboe] and Crimean juniper (Juniperus excelsa Bieb.) to compare the species for tree height and diameter at base. Two areas were sampled each 500 m2 (50 x 10 m) to contribute afforestation and other forestry practices. Averages of tree height and diameter at base were ordered as Anatolian black pine (3.7 m and 15.6 cm), Taurus cedar (3.6 m and 9.5 cm) and Crimean juniper (1.7 m and 8.7 cm), while large variations among trees within species. Results of analysis of variance showed significant (p<0.05) differences among species. Sampled areas were similar (p>0.05) for diameter at base opposite to tree height (p<0.05) according to results of analysis of variance. There were positive and significant (p<0.05) relations between tree height and diameter at base based on results of correlation analysis in all species.
Determination of certain biochemical properties of Lavandula stoechas L.
Lavandula stoechas L. (Lamiaceae) is an aromatic plant species recognized as a potential source of phenolic compounds and has been traditionally used in many countries for centuries. Essential oils derived from species of the Lavandula genus are widely utilized in perfumery, cosmetics, food processing, and aromatherapy due to their diverse biological properties. In this study, the aim was to determine the total phenolic content and antioxidant properties of the essential oil obtained from the dried aerial parts of L. stoechas. The total phenolic content of the essential oil was measured using the Folin–Ciocalteu method, while antioxidant activities were evaluated through CUPRAC and DPPH assays. According to the results, the total phenolic content was found to be 1.349 mg/g. The highest antioxidant capacity was observed with the CUPRAC method, yielding a value of 2.408 mg/g, whereas the mean DPPH value was determined to be 0.054 mg/g. These findings indicate that the essential oil of L. stoechas exhibits strong antioxidant potential, with the CUPRAC method reflecting a notably higher antioxidant activity.
Stone pine in Turkish forestry (Pinus pinea L.)
This study was carried out on the Stone Pine (Pinus pinea L.) species, which is widely distributed in the world and in Turkey and has sociocultural, ecological, economic and aesthetic value in Turkish forestry. Stone pine wood, bark, resin and seeds called pine nuts are used. Pistachio pine is of great importance in the country's economy, both for its use in erosion control studies in sandy-arid areas and for production of pine nuts. Pine nuts are among the exported species classified as non-wood forest products. In 2023, $33,107,813 export revenue was obtained with 565 tons. As the versatile use of forests other than wood raw material increases day by day, and the Pistachio pine species subject to the study has such economic value and is naturally distributed in our country, the demand and applications for the species are also increasing.
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The use of seaweed in the production of ornamental plants
Ornamental plants play a crucial role in urban green spaces by enhancing aesthetic value and providing ecological and economic benefits. They help improve air quality, support biodiversity, and contribute to environmental purification. The horticultural industry benefits from cultivating ornamental plants, it faces challenges such as soil health and environmental pollution due to high-yielding cultivars and chemical fertilizers. To address these challenges, integrating sustainable practices, such as using seaweed as an organic fertilizer, can provide solutions. Seaweed, rich in essential nutrients and growth hormones, improves soil fertility, plant growth, and resilience against environmental stresses. Studies have shown its effectiveness in enhancing growth parameters, mitigating salinity stress, and increasing yield and quality in various ornamental plants. However, the response to seaweed varies across species and conditions. To optimize its use, tailored application rates, combined sustainable practices, and continuous monitoring are recommended. Further research is also needed to develop comprehensive guidelines for its application in ornamental plant production.
Evaluation of industrial plantation application results in terms of natural and artificial regeneration method
In recent years, the increase in demand for wood and wood products in the world has brought industrial plantation applications to the forefront. With the industrial plantation application, it is aimed to obtain the highest amount of wood product from the unit area in a short time. Fast growing tree species and saplings obtained as a result of genetic breeding work contribute to the realization of this purpose. This study, which was carried out to contribute to industrial plantation and rejuvenation studies, was carried out with 324 individuals (90 natural and 234 artificial) aged between 1 and 11 years. In the study, the Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the growth characteristics of seedlings planted in industrial plantation areas and seedlings obtained naturally from seed. As a result of the analysis, there is a significant difference (P < 0.05) in each of the EP1, EP2 and EP3 areas in terms of height and age values of individuals according to the regeneration method. There was a significant difference (P < 0.05) in the bottom diameter values of the individuals in EP1, EP2, EP3 and EP4 areas. In terms of growth characteristics according to the regeneration method, it was determined that the growth characteristics of the individuals obtained by planting were higher than the growth characteristics of the individuals obtained by seed.
Effects of humic substance application on the development of Anatolian black pine seedlings
This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of humic substance application on the growth of Anatolian larch (Pinus nigra Arnold.) seedlings at the 5th growth stage. In the study, characteristics such as seedling height, root collar diameter, seedling fresh and dry weights, and vigor marker of larch seedlings treated with humic substances were examined. For this reason, 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% humic substance treatments were applied to the seedlings. Although there were significant differences between treatments and seedlings, the highest growth in terms of average seedling height (46,33 cm) and root collar diameter (11,41 mm) was determined in the 5% humic substance treatment. As a result of the correlation analysis, statistically significant positive relationships were found among the seedling characteristics. It was determined that humic substance treatments positively affected the morphological characteristics of seedlings. Furthermore, XRF analysis showed that humic substance application increased the uptake of compounds such as K₂O, Cr2O3, TiO2, ZnO, MnO and Nb₂O₅. Therefore, it was deemed appropriate to recommend the application of 5% humic substance in the applications. The results of the research support the widespread use of humic substance applications in forestry applications.
Acorn yield and tree diameter relations in Turkey oak (Qercus cerris L.)
Acorn production, diameter at base, diameter at breast height, and ratios were related in Turkey oak also known mossy oak (Qercus cerris L.) in this study. Data of 50 trees sampled from natural areas was collected to contribute silvicultural and other forestry practices of the species. Depending on results of correlation analysis, diameter at base, diameter at breast height had significantly effective on acorn production (r=0.56, 0.48, p<0.05), while ratios of diameters were not significantly effective on the production (p>0.05). Results of the study were discussed for potential forestry practices of the species.
The effect of sapling quality on survival in afforestation studies
It is known that afforestation works maintain ecological balance, improve air quality, promote biodiversity and increase the vital role of trees in ecosystems and human well-being by providing economic benefits. In this respect, afforestation; It is crucial for mitigating environmental challenges such as deforestation, climate change and erosion. It also provides opportunities for sustainable resource use, including timber, pharmaceuticals and economic development. It is known that the quality of saplings used in afforestation significantly affects the success of afforestation efforts. High-quality seedlings increase plant survival, encourage rapid growth, and help create healthier, more productive forest communities. In order to supply quality saplings, meticulous processes including seed production, selection, seed planting and sapling care, as well as nursery establishment, must be prioritized. In summary, the effect of using quality saplings on the continuity of afforestation projects cannot be ignored. High-quality saplings with superior genetics and robust root systems encourage the emergence of healthier individuals. On the contrary, the use of low-quality saplings may hinder the success of the project, leading to increased costs and waste of environmental resources. Therefore, careful sapling selection and quality control are imperative for successful afforestation that contributes to ecosystem services and environmental sustainability. This literature review aims to reveal the effects of the quality of saplings used in afforestation studies on the survival success of saplings.
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Non-wood forest products: Wild rose (Rosa canina L.)
This study was carried out on Wild rose (Rosa canina L.), which is a non-wood forest product class that has a wide distribution area in the world and in Turkey and has sociocultural and economic value in our country's forestry. The fruits of this species, which grow naturally in our country, have wide usage areas in different industrial sectors. Due to the presence of many vitamins and minerals in its fruits, it is used as an alternative medicine in the treatment of different diseases. In a study conducted on the rosehip species, wide inter-individual differences were detected in terms of fruit characteristics. Due to the increasing need to benefit from forests in many ways other than wood raw materials, and the wide usage area and economic importance of the Rosehip species subject to the study, the demand for the species and its cultivation practices are also increasing. Within the scope of this article, the sociocultural importance and economic value of the species have been tried to be examined in the light of the relevant literature.
Cone production x Some growth characteristics interaction in Bornmüllerian Fir (Abies nordmanniana subsp. bornmülleriana Mattf.)
In this study, interactions of cone production and tree height with diameter at breast height were investigated in 100 individuals of Bornmüllerian fir (Abies nordmanniana subsp. bornmülleriana Mattf.) sampled from Bursa district to contribute silvicultural practices of the species. Sampled individuals showed large differences for the characteristics. Average of cone number was 28 ranged from 6 to 48. Tree height and diameter at breast height had no significant (p>0.05) impact on cone production according to result of correlation analysis. Long term studies were suggested by new populations and characteristics based on results of the study.
Assessment of Mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus L.) plantations in Çeşme-İzmir, Turkey
Today, non-wood forest products obtained from forests have a very important role for humans. Mastic tree is an important non-wood forest product plant. In this study, the growth and development of three mastic tree plantation areas established in 2016 in Çeşme-İzmir were evaluated. The mean height, diameter, crown diameter and last year shoot length of mastic tree seedlings were found to be 121,91 cm, 6,37 cm, 176,59 cm and 3,63 cm, respectively. Plantation areas showed statistically significant differences in terms of all explored characteristics. Positive associations of crown diameter with height and diameter were found in all studied plantation areas. This study revealed that the growth and development status of the mastic tree seedlings in the evaluated plantation areas in Çeşme-İzmir are good. However, it should not be overlooked that identifying the growth and development status of mastic tree in the longer term will produce more beneficial results for practitioners.
Carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua L.) in Turkish forestry
This review article was carried out on Carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.), one of the secondary forest tree species that has an important place in our country's forestry despite its limited distribution area. Carob has a high potential as a non-wood forest product. Within the scope of the study, the socio-cultural, economic and silvicultural characteristics of the species were examined. For example, in our country, 16,256 tons of carob fruits were produced in an area of ​​7,652 decares in 2019. According to the Carob Action Plan, it is stated that approximately 30,000 hectares of land in Mersin, Adana, Antalya, Kahramanmaraş and Muğla Regional Directorate of Forestry can be subject to Carob rehabilitation. Due to the properties and economic importance of carob, its usage area is increasing day by day.
Morphological variation and quality in Anatolian black pine seedlings
There are many biological and environmental factors in success of forest establishment including afforestation, industrial plantation, and other forestry practices such as nursery technique and provenance. Forest establishment is also getting importance for the Anatolian Black pine [Pinus nigra Arnold. subsp. pallasiana (Lamb.) Holmboe] because of its widely using in afforestation and higher unproductive forest area, and other practices (i.e., landscape planning). It is known that seedling morphology and quality play key role in biological and economical success in these practices. This study was carried out on 1+0, 3+0 and 5+0 years containerized seedlings grown in Adana-Kicak and Konya-Seydisehir Forest Nurseries to contribute nursery practices (such as grown quality seedlings) and success of forest establishment and other practices For the purpose, seedling height and root-collar diameter of 100 seedlings randomly chosen in each age group were measured at the end of 2017. Averages of seedling height of 1+0, 3+0 and 5+0 years were 9.9 cm, 22.6 cm, and 59.8 cm, respectively, while they were 2.6 mm, 7.8 mm and 14.3 mm for root-collar diameter. Coefficient of variation was the highest at 3 years old seedlings for both characters (27% & 25.3%) but the lowest at 5 years old ones (16% &18.3%). 1% of seedlings for height (height<5cm) and 17% of seedlings for root-collar diameter (diameter<2mm) of 1+0 year seedlings were cull/unsuitable for plantation, while they were no any cull seedlings at age 3 and 5 years according to quality classes of Turkish Standard Institute. Positive and significant (p<0.05) correlation was found between height and diameter at all age groups. It emphasized seedling height could be used in the selection of quality seedlings for easy practices by nursery managers.
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The importance of plant nutrients and the role of fertilization in forest nurseries
The main purpose of production in nurseries is to obtain quality seedlings. In accordance with this purpose, one of the important maintenance operations applied in nurseries is fertilization. Fertilization is an effective method used to prevent plant growth disorders. This application is performed in cases where the existing plant nutrients cannot be taken because of the causes such as high pH, aeration, water stress or plant nutrients are deficiency. This study focuses on the functions of plant nutrients and the role of fertilization in forest nurseries. In order to obtain quality seedlings, the growing medium should contain sufficient and balanced plant nutrients. Correct and timely fertilization is the utmost importance for plant nutrition. Studies investigating the effects of fertilization on seedlings of forest trees tested mostly nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. In this sense, identifying the effects of other plant nutrients on seedling growth would be beneficial for seedling production activities.
Nursery, plant nutrients, fertilization, forest
Assessment of Turkish Red Pine (Pinus brutia Ten.) provenance trials in terms of breast height diameter at 30th years age: The Mediterranean and the Aegean Regions
In this study, 13 trials located in the Mediterranean and Aegean Regions at the age of 30 of the Turkish pine origin trials established in a total of 26 trial areas in Turkey and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus were evaluated in terms of diameter at breast height. 50 Turkish red pine provenances from different regions of Turkey and TRNC were sampled in the trials. Provenances with the best diameter growth and statistically significant differences were determined in the Mediterranean Region Low Altitude (200-600 m), Mediterranean Region Upper Elevation (900-950 m), and Aegean Region (401-700 m) Afforestation Zones. In addition, the performance stability of the provenances in terms of diameter growth was determined within the framework of the Mediterranean and Aegean trials. Experimental design in each trial is randomized complete block design with three replications. In each replication, provenances had presented with 16 seedlings initially. In 15th year, the trials were systematically thinned and sapling number in each replication was halved. As a result, significant differences were found in 12 trials in terms of diameter at breast height growth between provenances. It has been determined that the experimental error variance rates and the inter-plot error variation coefficients of the trials have decreased compared to the evaluations made in previous years. It has been determined that the origins of the Mediterranean Low Elevation Zone do not lag behind the origins of the Middle Elevation Zone in terms of performance stability in the Mediterranean and Aegean Regions. It has been observed that the performance stability of the Mediterranean Upper Elevation Zone provenances and the Aegean Region provenances are very variable. It has been determined that the provenances of the Marmara Region and isolated provenances do not have the ability to adapt to the Mediterranean and Aegean Regions.
Seed orchard and seed stands of Turkish forestry
Seed orchard established artificially, and seed stands selected from natural forests are important seed sources together with other functions in forestry. 185 seed orchards of 12 species at 1443.3 ha were established, while 318 seed stands of 32 species at 41880.1 ha. were selected. Brutian pine (Pinus brutia Ten.) had the highest seed orchards (78 numbers, 663.2 ha) and seed stands (72 numbers, 10421.9 ha) based on its natural distribution area. Present inventory of seed orchard and seed stands published was Forest Tree Seeds and Tree Breeding Research Directorate was examined to contribute establishment and selection of seed sources in this review paper.
The recreational use of Burdur Lake and user evaluations
In this research, it is aimed to determine the recreational use level and user preferences of Burdur Lake, which is located within the borders of Burdur and Isparta provinces. In the scope of the study, literature analysis, questionnaire-interview and field observations were used as data collection methods. Frequency (n) and percentage (%) values were used in the analysis. According to the results of the study, the area is highly demanded due to its proximity to the city centre. High number of visitors reduces the level of utilization of the visitors who prefer the area and may cause visual and environmental degradation in the area. Participants prefer the area to have a picnic with their families and to watch the scenery. In addition, the participants emphasized the necessity of protecting Burdur Lake and its surroundings, although they see it as a touristic area. As a result, the area is an important wetland protected by the Ramsar Convention, and the use planning should be done in accordance with ecological criteria.
Seedling quality classes in forest tree species: A case study of Brutian pine
In this review paper, seedling quality and morphology of Brutian pine (Pinus brutia Ten.) which has the largest natural distribution in Turkey is examined based on early paper of Dilaver (2015), Yilmazer (2017) and Bilir (2019). Results of the study show that seedling quality and morphology are very variable by seed provenance, seedling type and nursery. Beside, the results could be applied on nursery practices of the species. It is clear that present seedling quality of Turkish Standard Institute is not sufficient and new quality classes needed.
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20th years’ results of Cedrus species and provenance adaptation trials established in cool and semi-arid variant of supra-mediterranean bioclimatic stratum’s in the south western Turkey
Twenty provenances of Atlas Cedar, three provenances of Lebanon Cedar and two provenances of Cyprus Cedar had subjected to 20 year adaptation trials in Soutwestern Mediterrenean Elmalı and Keçiborlu locations where Supra-Mediterranean (cool,semi-arid) Bioclimatic conditions prevail. According to 20 year’s results, it was determined that Algerian Atlas cedar, Lebanon cedar and Cyprus cedar provenances had adaptation capability to mentioned conditions. Nevertheless, Morocco provenances of Atlas cedar had lower adaptation hence vulnerability to expected climate change due to global warming.
Investigation of occupational accidents at the forestry harvesting activities
Occupational accidents are affecting human life each year causing serious problems in Turkey and around the world. For this reason, it is seen that there is a need for more occupational health and safety studies. Forestry is one of the sectors with a high risk group in general. In this study, In this study, occupational accident ratio and some habits of forest harvesting workers, and the reasons of the accidents were investigated. The data obtained from a total of 111 forest workers responded to a self-administered questionnaire working at the harvesting practises at Directorates of Forest Enterprises Adana, Ankara, Bolu, Çorum, Erzincan, Kocaeli, Sinop and Tokat were used. According to findings; 15 % of forestry workers had at least an occupational accident and the causes of accidents were determined as difficulty of workplace, excessive fatigue-sleeplessness, ignorance-lack of education, adverse weather conditions, deficiency of personal protection equipment and carelessness. Suggestions were made in order to minimize the occupational accidents in forest areas and to offer better conditions to the forest workers.
Alternative cash crop for marginal areas: Styrax officinalis L.
Styrax officinalis L. is generally known as 'rosary tree' or 'bear hazelnut' is a very important medicinal plant can grow in shrub or barren fields outside of forest areas, its high oil content in its seed and its versatile uses. Although studies have increased in recent years, the plant still has not received the attention it deserves. For this reason, this compilation has been prepared in order to introduce the plant and bring together the studies.
Investigation of Turkish red pine (Pinus brutia Ten.) seedlings in terms of morphology and quality
Red pine (Pinus brutia Ten.), one of the most widely distributed species in the forests of our country, constitutes approximately 25% of our forest assets. Considering that it grows faster than similar species and the area it covers, forestry researches about the species are important. This study was carried out on one year old natural Turkish red pine (Pinus brutia Ten.) reproductions, grown 6 natural distribution areas of the species. Root collar diameter and height of seedlings at 100 individuals from each origin and totally 600 individuals were measured in 2019; the distribution of the seedlings according to the morphology and quality classes has been examined. Thus, it is aimed to contribute to the forestry applications to be made in the future. As a result of the study, averages of root collar diameter and height were 1.83 mm and 8.64 cm, respectively. According to the quality classes of Turkish Standard Institute for Coniferous Tree seedlings, 71.83% of the seedlings were unsuitable on the basis of seedling height (height<10cm), while it was 87.33% for root collar diameter (diameter<2mm). Statistically significant and positive correlation (p<0.01, r=0.576) was estimated between the seedling height and root collar diameter.
Investigation on sand-dune afforestation by Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus grandis W. Hill) in Patara-Antalya region
As a result of the measurements made in these afforestation works carried out with the Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus grandis W. Hill) species under the scope of Patara Sand-Dune Afforestation Works in Kas district of Antalya province, the average breast height growth was found to be between 32.4 and 46.5 cm, the average height growth was found to be between 15.2 and 24.6 m and the average growing stock per hectare was found be varying between 9.164 and 17.098 m3/ha. Moreover, it was found that outstanding results had been achieved with this sand-dune afforestation work carried out to prevent the threat of the sand-dune movements to the inner settlements and fertile agricultural lands, and that new fertile soil formations had been obtained. In addition to this, although the Eucalyptus species used in afforestation was an exotic species, it was also determined that the average adaptability varied between 71.8 and 86.3% and that it showed a great adaptation to the region.
Morphological variations on the basis of origins in Turkish red pine (Pinus brutia Ten.)
Turkish red pine (Pinus brutia Ten.) is a tree specie with the widest distribution area among pine species in Turkey. In terms of wood production Turkish red pine has huge economic economic and ecological importance. Identification of ecological races and mass seedling production on the basis of ecological races are very important deal with the climate change. Production of quality seedlings is one of the important factors in the success of afforestation studies, especially in the improvement of unproductive areas. In this study, sapling length, sapling root collar diameter, number of lateral shoots, average length of the lateral shoots, terminal shoot length, stem height without shoots, number of terminal buds were measured in 1 + 0 year old seedlings obtained from 6 different origins and located in Antalya Forest Nursery. By obtained results, it was analyzed whether there were differences in terms of morphological features between the origins. Measurements were carried out on 100 saplings from 6 different origins with 3 replication, and in total 1800 saplings were measured. It was determined that the seedlings have statistically significant differences in terms of morphological characteristics depending on the origin. Obtained data showed that number of terminal buds and lateral shoot length can give significant results in quality classification in terms of morphological characteristics beside seedling height and root collar diameter.
Areal examination of afforestation practices in Turkey
As in whole the world, unproductive forest area is one of the important economic and socio-cultural problems in our country. According to 2015’ inventory of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, the forest area, which was 4 billion 128 million ha in 1990, decreased to 3 billion 999 million ha in 2015, and in 2010-2015, an average of 3 million ha of forest area was degraded each year in worldwide. Degradation process occurred especially in natural forests continues throughout the world. Turkey has 22.74 million ha of forest which of 9.6 million ha is degraded subjected to afferestation practices according to the latest inventory of 2019. New degraded forests can be added to these unproductive forest areas due because of forest fires, illegal utilization and climate change. Silvicultural activities such as afforestation, rehabilitation and regeneration are among the most important practices in conversion of the unproductive/degraded forests to productive forests. In this review article, it is aimed to contribute to afforestation practices by examining together with other forest establishment practices in the light of the last forestry inventory.