Effect of leaflitters of nitrogen fixing acacia trees on the growth of African star apple (<i>Chrysophyllum albidum</i> g.don): A step towards enhancing the growth of an endangered species

Abstract

To meet the population demand for enormous benefits of an endangered species, Chrysophyllum albidum, its’ slow growth need to be improved through the use of environmentally friendly leaf litters of nitrogen fixing acacia trees. Investigation conducted into effect of leaf litters of nitrogen fixing acacia trees (Acacia tortilis, Acacia seyal, Acacia nilotica, Acacia senegal, Acacia leucophloea and Acacia albida) at the rates of 300 g on the growth of C. albidum was laid down using a Completely Randomized Design with five replications. Results showed that leaf liters of nitrogen fixing acacia tree species significantly (P<0.05) enhanced the growth of C. albidum seedlings. Tallest plant (25 cm), widest leaf area (55.71 cm2) and highest number of leaves (11), significant total fresh weight (48.45 g) and total dry weight (21.55 g) of C. albidum were recorded from seedlings planted in soil amended with A. senegal. Widest girth (1.92 cm) was recorded from seedlings planted in the soil influenced with A. leucophloea. Highest percentage values of 2.22 %, 0.90 % and 1.74 % were recorded for nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content of A. senegal. Soil influenced with A. senegal enhanced the growth of C. albidum seedlings. Planting of C. albidum seedlings in the soil amended with A. senegal is recommended for mass production of its seedlings for agro-forestry systems as well as to increase biodiversity conservation.

Key words: Leaf litters, Nitrogen fixing tree species, Growth, Population demand, Agro-forestry