Nutrient Requirements of Some Casuarina equisetifolia Plantations in Maharashtra and Gujarat

The study formed a part of similar work undertaken on the species in other coastal areas where Casuarina is grown. Since in some areas mortality of Cosuarina equisetifolia was reported, it was considered necessary to know the nutrient requirements of the species coupled with soil studies, in order to find out whether the sites where the species is grown meet the requirements. Nutrient requirements of Casuarina equisetifnlia were studied by means of foliar analysis. The results indicate that there is rise in the uptake of N, K and Mg in 4 snd 5 year old crops after which there is not much variation. While Ca uptake does not show any regular trends P uptake is lower in higher age group crops. Since most of the areas where Casuarina is grown have sandy soil, it is suggested that the fertilizer application of all the minerals Except P, to 3-4 years old plantations in the form of a balanced dose may probably result in better growth in area.Where growth is found to be not up to the mark.