INTRODUCTION OF ROOT TRAINERS TO FOREST NURSERIES IN SRI LANKA

Abstract

Use of poly bags for the production of tree seedlings result in several disadvantages due todistortion of the root system. Poor lateral root formation, root spiralling and bending of taproot occurs in poly bags and affects the growth of the tree. Slow growth, poor draughttolerance and lack of wind firmness are some of the major problems resulting from the useof poly bags

A new container called root trainer has been developed to overcome these problems.

Root trainers were introduced to the forest research centre nursery at Kumbalpola with aview to gain first hand experience on the handling maintenance and preparation of pottingmedia. The results have been encouraging. A good potting media suitable for the use inroot trainers was developed. Better root growth was observed in root trainer grownseedlings. Maintenance, handling and field planting were much easier compare to polybag grown seedlings. It is concluded that the root trainers can be successfully used for theproduction of tree seedlings.