Performance of Eucalyptus clones according to environmental conditions

Abstract

The aim of this study was to verify if the selection site of clones affects their performance when used in other regions and to estimate the contribution of climate and soil factors in clonal performance when these were evaluated under different environmental conditions. Growth data were used for assessment of 49 Eucalyptus clones in eight environments. Clonal tests were set up in a randomized block design, with 30 or 40 replications, and plots consisted of one plant. Data concerning the volume of trees at three years of age were considered. Regression equations between the dependent variable (volume) and the independent variables (environmental factors) were obtained. It was found that the clones showed great variation in volumetric performance in different environments. The clone x location interaction was significant, showing that response of the clones did not coincide in different locations. For most of the clones, the selection site did not propitiate greater adaptation to the region of origin. The response to environmental factors varied among clones, especially for altitude, rainfall, boron, and zinc. Two clones stood out as the most stable and adapted to the three regions of planted forest.