Effect of soil fertilization on wood quality in clonal and seminal planting of Eucalyptus dunnii

Abstract The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of soil mineral fertilization in clonal and seminal plantations of E. dunnii on wood quality and its relationship with tree crown and trunk variables. Data were collected in experimental plantations of E. dunnii at 8.5-years-old. The treatments were seminal and clonal propagation and soil fertilization: conventional formulation, slow-release, and control. Tree crown and trunk variables were measured. Tree grain deviation, growth stress (LRS) and wood density were also measured. A mean test to compare treatments was performed and a correlation test was performed between parameters. Principal component analyzes (PCAs) were generated to understand the effects of treatments. The results demonstrate that the seminal propagation presented a greater length and percentage of the tree crown. On the other hand, clonal trees showed higher LRS. Soil fertilized in plantations showed a lower degree of trunk slenderness rate. The LRS showed a positive correlation with the trunk dimensions and volume. The PCAs results recommend the planting of clonal E. dunnii , under the soil nutritional management with fertilization of conventional formulation. These trees tend to present greater trunk growth and volumetric increment, as well as better parameters wood quality variables.