The influence of four important bushveld trees, Acacia Senegal, Acacia tortilis, Boscia albitrunca and Combretum apiculatum on the distribution and productivity of Panicum maximum, was investigated.
The study was carried out in two phases that included both a field survey and greenhouse experiments. The field work was carried out in the Lower Crocodile Valley north?west of Thabazimbi, in the western Transvaal. Belt transects were used to determine the distribution of Panicum maximum in association with the above named tree species.
The greenhouse experiments were carried out to compare the productivity (dry yield) of Panicum maximum in soil collected underneath the various tree species and in soil collected in the open away from trees. The influence on productivity of a light degree of shading and two different moisture regimes was investigated simultaneously, as well as the effect of various appications of N, P and K to soil collected in open areas.
Journal articles from the Grassland Society of Southern Africa (GSSA) African Journal of Range and Forage Science as well as related articles and reports from throughout the southern African region.