GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF NATURAL ACACIA HYBRID IN A CLONAL TRIAL IN BAU BANG, HO CHI MINH CITY

Abstract

Acacia hybrid is a key plantation species in Vietnam due to its rapid growth, wide ecological amplitude, adaptability to many types of soil, also contributes to soil improvement and environmental enhancement. However, many currently planted varieties are showing signs of reduced productivity and disease resistance, requiring the addition of new varieties that are more suitable to the ecological conditions of each region. This study aims to select acacia hybrid varieties with high productivity and quality for economic forest planting in the Southeast region. The trial, which comprised 30 newly selected acacia hybrid clones and two recognised control clones (AH7 and BV16), was conducted in Bau Bang, Ho Chi Minh city. At 36 months of age, significant differences were observed in the clones' survival rate, growth indicators, and stem quality traits. The mean survival rate was 87.1%, with average diameter at breast height (DBH), height and yield reached 9.9 cm, 10.6 m, and 19.8 m³/ha/year, respectively. Three clones SM6, SM4, and SM9 have superior yields compared to the control variety BV16, achieving 25.2 - 6.3 m³/ha/year, along with straight trunks, small branches and good health. These clones are promising candidates that meet the requirements for high yield and wood quality, suitable for economic plantation development in the Southeastern region of Vietnam.