Tree planting zones in Nepal - an ecological approach based on vegetation types

A substantial number of species (especially fodder trees) are planted by farmers and it is likely that the demand for many species will increase in the future. Given the extraordinarily large ecological variation in Nepal, special attention should be given to ecological considerations. Different species and seed sources will be best at different planting sites, and the challenge is therefore to match species and seed sources to planting site. Well-adapted seed sources may ensure a reliable yield for farmers, while maladapted seed sources may result in loss - or even total failure. In the present ’Tree Planting Zones’ planting sites with similar environmental conditions are grouped together into zones for which specific seed sources can be developed and thereby increase farmers’ planting success. The ’Tree Planting Zones’ can be recognised in the field by farmers and will be utilised where there is the greatest potential for seed demand. The distribution of vegetation types is the best indicator of growing conditions for trees and bushes. ’Tree Planting Zones’ have been developed in the warmer ecological zones where most planting by farmers take place and consequently where most seed transfers are required. In the colder ecological zones transfer of seeds for the relatively limited planting should be avoided and seed should be collected at the planting site.