Ökologie und Nutzung von Combretaceen in Burkina Faso - Gtz

Summaryfelling cuts is during the dormant period before the rise of sap betweenJanuary and May. Natural rejuvenation from seeds is, however, severely impededby anthropogenic influences and the unfavorable climatic conditions,particularly in the Sahel zone.The propagation of Combretum species from seeds is readily possible innurseries. C. aculeatum is particularly undemanding and fast-growing. Storageof the harvested seeds for up to ca. 8 months at room temperature ispossible without any significant decrease in vitality. Except in C. aculeatumthe seeds must be removed from the fruits before storage.C. aculeatum and C. micranthum are, in addition, suited for propagation bycuttings.The four Combretum species are used by the population in many ways.Their timber serves as firewood, for construction, and as general work materialwhile their non-timber products play an important role in traditionalmedicine. C. aculeatum is especially esteemed as rich animal feed. Despitetheir great socio-economic importance, the Combretum species are notamong the species preferred by the local population for reforestations asthey are still relatively common in the area anyway and, furthermore, do notproduce edible fruit. Their use on degraded sites not suited for other species,however, is considered sensible and necessary.For the recultivation of degraded clearings planting of C. aculeatum and C.micranthum as well as direct sowing of C. aculeatum have proven successful.Preconditions for a successful colonization with vegetation are the applicationof wood mulch for soil improvement and better retention of moistureas well as sufficient protection from grazing and fire. As a side effect of theIX