Terminologies in Forestry

Tree: Any woody specie above 6m is considered a tree. Though this term is used interchangeably with shrub . Species such as Irvingia gabonensis(Ogbono) is commonly referred to as a tree. But that is a wrong concept it does not grow higher than 6m. While Milicia excelsa is considered a tree because it grows higher than 6meters.

shrub: Any plant 5m and below. They are medium sized trees. They can be distinguished from trees by their multiple stems and shorter height and are usually lower than 6meters.

Herbs: Any plant below 3m. The term is commonly used for plants with savory and aromatic properties such afromomium melegueta.

Afforestation: The process of planting trees in an area not previously occupied by trees. This term is commonly used to mean planting of trees in an area that has no tree cover.

Reforestation: The act of planting trees in an area previously occupied with trees. Reforestationnis usually carried out in a place that have decreasing number of trees.

Deforestation: The act of clearing an area of land occupied by trees.

Felling: The process of cutting down trees. This should not be confused with falling which means falling down. Felling is used only when it involves cutting of trees.

Seedlings: A growing plant

Wilding: an offshoot of particular specie growing without the assistance of man. This is normally found around the mother tree.

Polypots: This is used to mean any container used to raise seedling either polybags, claypots or cups.

Germination trays: This simply means any container used to germinate seeds before transferring into polypots. This is usually done with seed that very small in size.

Nursery: This is a place that is set aside for raising of seeds before transferring to the Field.

TO BE CONTINUED.
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